Lifelong Learning: Continuing Education for Seniors

Lifelong Learning: Continuing Education for Seniors

There is no better time to pursue continuing education for seniors. Technology changes every day. The ongoing changes expand the ways seniors can enroll in classes and programs that will enrich their lives. A wide variety of elderly education programs are available both in person and online.

Let’s investigate some possibilities for continuing education for older adults and the benefits of lifelong learning for seniors.

What is Lifelong Learning for Seniors?

Lifelong learning is a self-motivated and directed approach to learning. It is an ongoing pursuit to obtain knowledge and expand the mind.

Why not take the opportunity to enroll in structured educational programs for older adults or pursue other interests such as traveling, volunteering, or joining a book club?

All these options keep us active, engaged, and provide the chance to learn new things no matter how old we are.

What Are Some Benefits of Education for Seniors?

Socialization is an important part of life as we age. Enrolling in elderly education programs not only stimulates the mind, but it also provides opportunities to meet new people who have similar interests.

Cognitive stimulation is necessary to maintain a sharp mind in the golden years. Participating in elderly education programs is the perfect way to stay on top of things while exercising your brain.

Learning New Skills is both rewarding and useful. Continuing education for adults can teach you everything from planting a vegetable garden to learning how to become proficient on the computer.

Photography classes are fun and can help you create a photo journal to pass along to your kids and grandkids. You can share your photos with friends and family members through social media sites even if they live across the country. Learning to navigate through Facebook or Instagram is another skill you can learn to help you keep up with the younger people in your life!

How about a cooking class? Or a painting class? Maybe you love music and would like to learn to play the piano or another instrument.

Learning a new language is a wonderful way to stimulate your mind. Language courses are offered at senior centers, libraries, community centers, and adult education centers in many areas.

Check out Duolingo if you would like to try an online foreign language course. You can do this course or other online foreign language courses in the comfort of your own home.

It’s never too late to learn a new skill, and one of the benefits of being retired is that you have the time to do it.

What About Free or Affordable Learning Opportunities for Seniors?

Most states offer some form of educational programs for older adults. Some Community Colleges and Universities allow seniors to sit in on classes for free. You can earn a tuition-free degree at participating schools if you would like to go that route.

If you have mobility problems or can no longer drive, you can take classes online and earn a degree at your desk at home.

If you’re not computer savvy, take a computer course. You will be surprised to discover the doors it will open for you.

Lifelong learning not only enriches your life but also keeps you in touch with the ever-changing world we live in.

Participating in educational programs for older adults in your community will connect you with like-minded people who are hungry for knowledge and want to remain active and vibrant as they age.

"Commit yourself to lifelong learning. The most valuable asset you’ll ever have is your mind and what you put into it."

-Albert Einstein.