It is said that curiosity keeps the mind young. In fact, according to the Association for Psychological Science, learning new skills keeps an aging mind sharp. Continuing education focused on something unfamiliar and challenging provides mental and social stimulation. Therefore, think of aging as a unique time and opportunity to explore something new.
Continuing Education and Training Opportunities
Colleges, libraries, agencies, online courses, and community organizations all provide many learning opportunities for seniors. And, you may even be able to complete some of them for free.
Local community colleges and universities
Some of these institutions of learning offer discounted or free continuing education opportunities for seniors. Seniors can contact the financial aid or admissions offices of the schools in their area.
A wide range of programs are offered for seniors at community colleges. Community colleges also provide non-degree seeking offerings in subjects such as art or history. Online and telecourses for learning at home are available as well.
For example, Harvard University offers a wide variety of online courses, which include:
- Art and design
- Business
- Computer science
- Social sciences
- Humanities
- Mathematics
Some of the classes are free and some require tuition.
Many colleges across the nation offer online degrees with senior citizens in mind.
The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute provides many classes on college campuses across the United States. The Institute was created to meet the needs of individuals ages 50 and older, and offers a wide variety of subjects:
- Philosophy
- History
- Art
- Music
- Current events
- Political issues
- Religion
- Science
- Literature
- Languages
For people 55 and older, the AARP Foundation’s Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) provides both community service and work-based training. To qualify, a person must be unemployed and have an income of no more than 125% of the established federal poverty guidelines. The program is offered in 20 states and Puerto Rico.
Area Agency on Aging organizations (AAA) in many communities offer training and educational opportunities. You can locate your local AAA at the national website here.
TED Talks provide short powerful online talks (18 minutes or less) on almost every topic from science to business to global issues; including talks on lifelong learning.
What Do You Gain?
Aside from new knowledge and skills, studies have shown that seniors who participate in new, mentally-stimulating activities have improved memories. Lifelong learning is also linked to a diminished rate of depression and anxiety. So keep on learning!
