Senior man reading a book in the library

Back to School for Seniors: Lifelong Learning Opportunities, Fun and Fulfillment in Retirement

With school supplies back on the shelves at stores and students and parents preparing for the upcoming year, we’ve got learning on our minds at Eastcastle Place. The following lifelong learning guide offers suggestions and tips for exercising your brain and keeping you active.

  • Lifelong learning is the ongoing process of practicing and growing skill sets while also obtaining knowledge and a wider understanding of the world. Education does not have to end with school, with a degree or even a career. There are numerous benefits of lifelong learning and self-initiated education, including mental stimulation, increased self-confidence, and opportunities to meet new people and become more adaptable in your personal and professional life. Studies show that lifelong learning for seniors promotes healthier brains and bodies.
  • Education, in its different avenues, has changed over the years with adults becoming  more committed to ongoing learning opportunities. Colleges offer collegiate-level courses for non-degree seekers. Local organizations host lectures, presentations, and classes. Individuals are pursuing their interests through research via reading, listening to podcasts, and watching online videos.
  • At Eastcastle Place, we strive to inspire and empower residents to embrace lifelong learning and to keep pursuing their passions. We want to encourage you to do the same!

Reignite Your Passion for Learning

These days, there are a wide variety of opportunities for lifelong learning:

  • Formal education (college courses, certifications, workshops)
  • Informal learning (online learning courses, books, documentaries, podcasts)
  • Self-directed learning (personal projects, hobbies, travel)
  • Community-based learning (volunteer work, group activities, clubs)

Regardless of your experience level, it’s worth taking the time to consider what your interests are and which learning styles you prefer. Do you like being part of a group of learners? Solo studying? Perhaps you have more fun with a “buddy system” of learning? Do not forget that you are never too old for a mentor. Many self-educating people have had at least one mentor, or a series of mentors, throughout their lives and thrive with that sort of close connection with  teachers or instructors.

A diverse group of adults are indoors in their university computer lab. A senior Caucasian woman is smiling at the camera while typing on a keyboard.

You can also check out local libraries, community centers, and colleges for resources and schedules of adult education opportunities. A quick online search of “lifelong learning for seniors” or a visit to a local bookstore can also show you what is available nearby. Additionally, picking up volunteer work or a part-time job is a great way to keep skills sharp and learn new ones while enjoying social interactions.

Lifelong Learning Enriches Life

Benefits of lifelong learning include:

  • Cognitive health: Improved memory, focus, problem-solving skills, and mental agility
  • Emotional well-being: Reduced stress, increased resilience, and a greater sense of purpose
  • Social connections: Building relationships, fostering community, and combating isolation
  • Career advancement: Acquiring new skills, staying competitive, and exploring new opportunities
  • Personal growth: Expanding knowledge, developing new perspectives, and achieving personal goals

Finally, let’s not forget that learning about something new and sharing that interest can be fun. A big part of enjoying learning is allowing yourself to look at the experience with a beginner’s mindset. Practicing new skills, researching unfamiliar topics, and figuring things out through trial and error in a judgment-free space enhances the “play” aspect of learning.

Being able to try new things and let yourself make mistakes is all part of the fun. There is plenty of room to try different things and take different approaches. So get out there and explore your interests!

A Community of Lifelong Learners

Many senior living communities have their own lifelong learners in residence. Here are some real-life examples of individuals at Eastcastle Place who have embraced lifelong learning through different modalities:

  • Community activities: Resident Polly Tarantino shared, “There are lots of opportunities to stimulate the brain and body. We had a Latin dance class here recently. I learned the names of all the dances and the steps, not how to do all of them, but I learned their names and history, which I enjoyed.”
  • Local organizations: “I’ve been a member of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) OSHER for 12 years and have probably attended hundreds of presentations, and have given probably fifty presentations myself,” said resident Kathy Johnson. “It’s so exciting to always be learning something new and doing so with a group of peers.” Having numerous universities so close by has major advantages, presenting many opportunities for residents to audit classes or participate in programs such as OLLI.
  • Resident experts: “I really liked Paul Haubrich’s presentation about the East Side of Milwaukee,” said resident Roger Hansen. “His Tiffany stained-glass presentation was fascinating as well.” We’re fortunate to have residents willing to share their knowledge with others in the form of lectures,travelogues, and group discussions.

Making a Habit out of Lifelong Learning

Here are some practical tips for easily integrating lifelong learning into daily life:

  • Set realistic goals and create a learning plan
  • Find a learning buddy or join a study group
  • Explore online resources and educational platforms
  • Seek out mentors or experts in your field of interest
  • Celebrate your progress and embrace challenges

Mature Student Working With Teacher In Library

Lifelong Learning and More at Eastcastle Place

As humans, we never stop growing and learning. It’s never too late for personal development and that feeling of pride that comes with the sense of accomplishment of learning something new. Lifelong learning offers older adults new experiences that are beneficial physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially.We encourage our readers to take the first step on their lifelong learning journeys. Learn more about continued education and activities Eastcastle Place provides.

Learn More Today

At Eastcastle Place, we believe that learning is a lifelong journey. Our vibrant community offers a wealth of opportunities for intellectual stimulation, personal growth, and social connection. Discover a place where curiosity is celebrated, minds are expanded, and passions are ignited. Join us in embracing the fun and personal fulfillment of lifelong learning at Eastcastle Place.

Contact us today to learn more about our enriching programs and discover a community that values your pursuit of knowledge, personal growth, and new interests.