It’s back-to-school season and students have headed back to class for another year of learning. But learning doesn’t have to be limited to a school year or a certain age. According to an article published by Walden University, lifelong learning can help you stay mentally sharp, socially connected and can give your life meaning and purpose. Every stage of life offers new opportunities to grow, pursue knowledge, challenge ourselves and have new experiences.
Boost Your Brain Health
In a recent study conducted by Scientific American, older adults participated in a program where they attended classes three times a week to learn new skills like photography, Spanish, music composition, technology use, art and singing. Over the course of the study, participants significantly improved their cognitive scores for memory and attention. In a follow-up study a year later, participants had maintained their gains and their cognitive abilities were found to be similar to adults 50 years younger.
Just like exercise helps us to build stronger muscles and bones and improve cardiovascular health, learning new skills helps us to build new connections and pathways in our brains that improve memory, focus, problem-solving skills and can reduce the risk of cognitive decline.
Find New Purpose
After retirement some seniors may experience a loss of purpose and direction as they transition into a new stage of life and begin to consider what comes next. Without a career to focus on, they may feel uncertain about how to spend their time or where to direct their energy. Pursuing lifelong learning can provide a meaningful new focus, giving seniors the opportunity to discover new passions, explore interests they didn’t have time for in the past, or pursue goals that bring a sense of fulfillment and accomplishment to their next chapter.
Stay Connected
Pursuing lifelong learning not only helps seniors find purpose and meaning in life, it can also help them stay connected to others who share their interests and passions. Maintaining and building relationships as we age is critical for our physical and mental health, reducing risks of loneliness and social isolation and improving cognition.
According to Amit Shah, M.D., a geriatrician at the Mayo Clinic, “People are often surprised by the literature that shows a correlation between social contact and enormous health benefits. Interacting with others is exercise for your brain — it’s one of the best ways to improve your cognitive flexibility. It’s likely more beneficial than doing crossword puzzles or other brain games.”
How to Embrace Lifelong Learning
Lifelong learning doesn’t have to mean sitting in a classroom or pursuing a degree. It’s about exploring new interests, staying curious, and being open to experiences that inspire and challenge you.
Take a class or attend a lecture or workshop. Many universities offer classes either online or in person aimed at those who aren’t pursuing a degree but want to learn more about specific topics such as history, art, literature, music, or science.
Learn a new skill. Take music lessons, study a foreign language, learn how to crochet, or join a pickleball team.
Volunteer. Help out a few times a week at an animal shelter, art museum, historical society, after-school program or career training program to give back and learn something new about yourself or others.
Explore new places and cultures. Travel is an excellent way to learn about different cultures and gain new perspectives. Even if you aren’t able to travel across the world, you can attend a local cultural festival, experience a new cuisine you have never tried or visit museums or historical sites.
Join group activities. Most senior centers have robust activities programs, including exercise classes, Mah Jong groups, art classes, craft and hobby groups and organized outings.
Staying curious can open the door to a more fulfilling, connected and purposeful life. By continuing to learn, explore and engage with the world around you, you can enrich your life and build meaningful relationships.
Touchstone Communities Supports Lifelong Learning
At Touchstone Communities, we believe every stage of life should provide opportunities for growth, discovery and connection. Our long-term care residents engage in creative activities, fitness and recreational classes, and music and movement groups that add joy and meaning to everyday life. We also support seniors with rehabilitation therapy, memory care, skilled nursing care and respite care. Contact us to learn more.