Curiosity is a trait that we never lose as we age. As an older adult, you can use this curiosity to continue to learn, expand your mind, and benefit your health. Learning doesn’t begin and end with getting a high school diploma, or a college degree; you can be a lifelong learner because you enjoy learning new things or deepening your understanding of a topic.
There are so many resources and ways to learn about anything that interests you. This guide will detail the benefits of lifelong learning for seniors and where you can access tools to take you on your educational journey.
Benefits of Lifelong Learning for Seniors
Lifelong learning helps your mind stay sharp. As you focus on making new connections and absorbing new information, you also maintain your brain’s health. This can prevent cognitive decline, memory issues, and delay symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. There are also studies that suggest education helps people live longer.
When you’re taking continued education courses, you also have opportunities for social connection. You may have discussion groups with your peers where you can hear their perspectives or ideas about the topic or make friends with those you sit next to in class.
You also get the satisfaction of achieving your goals. When you’re a lifelong learner, you can work at your own pace so you don’t feel rushed, behind, or like you can’t work ahead to learn more.
Online Lifelong Learning Programs for Seniors
Programs are right at your fingertips when you’re in front of a computer or tablet. Take a look at these learning programs to see if one seems right for you.
Oasis Institute
The Oasis Institute provides all kinds of classes for older adults interested in online learning. You can find courses in History and Literature, Wellness, Connections Technology, and more.
Senior Net
Senior Net provides educational tools to teach seniors about technology, connects them with a community, and also researches how older adults interact with technology. If you’re interested in learning more about technology and how to use it to enhance your life, Senior Net may be your resource.
Senior Planet
Senior Planet has multiple types of classes you can take. They provide classes on Finance, Fitness, Wellness, and Computers and Technology. Senior Planet also has resources to help you set up and make the most of their classes.
Lifelong Learning Resources
You can expand on your learning by using online resources – these virtual tools can take you somewhere new to explore without leaving the comfort of your living room.
Virtual Museum Tours
If you love art history, appreciate specific eras of art, or want to start learning about an artist’s work, then taking a virtual museum tour is a great way to view the art without traveling.
You can see the Rosetta Stone at the British Museum, paintings by Van Gogh and Manet at the Guggenheim in New York, or the Mona Lisa in the Louvre.
Virtual Travel
You can visit famous natural sites or historic landmarks with a simple click. Take a look at the following places you can travel to in an instant:
Online Lectures
You can access all kinds of online lectures. Try taking online cooking classes, free art classes, or even choose from these free Ivy League courses.
In-Person Lifelong Learning Programs
If you prefer in-person learning, you still have plenty of ways to get the classroom experience. You may take a few classes at a college close to you.
At The Merion, residents often visit the Northwestern University campus through the college’s senior education program, OLLI (Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes).
OLLI provides educational opportunities for more than 1,500 adults in Evanston and Chicago. Taking classes through Northwestern could introduce you to other older adults dedicated to lifelong learning.
Lifelong Learning Opportunities at The Merion
The Merion also offers a number of ways to be a lifelong learner in our community. Whether you’re interested in talking about current events, working on your writing, or attending a musical performance, there are all kinds of new opportunities for learning at The Merion, including:
- Writer’s Discussions and Workshops
- Current Event Discussions
- Literary Presentations and Workshops
- Cultural Programs
- Musical Lectures and Performances
You can join any and all the clubs that interest you, where you may learn something new from your club members. Active residents enjoy all the offerings listed on the activities calendar. If you’re interested in learning more about the exciting activities and lifestyle offered at The Merion, check out the events calendar to join us for an upcoming event.
Be a Lifelong Learner at The Merion
Residents of The Merion are lifelong learners – come for a visit and learn more about all the ways we make education part of your senior living experience.