Seniors and Education – Knowledge Is Power: 8 Resources for Continuing Education
Life seems to go really fast, sometimes too fast. From coffee to information, everything is instant or faster. I’m at an age where I enjoy a slower pace. I remember my grandmother and all the things that were invented or happened in her lifetime, cars, the radio, television, men on the moon and computers and the internet. In October I will be celebrating my fortieth college reunion. Can it really be that long? Doesn’t seem like it. Guess I’ll be saying the same thing twenty years from now. Since graduating from college, I have not quit learning. After college, I went on to graduate school and later took classes for, among other things, computers, journalism, history, and real estate.
I know a few people who have no desire to learn anything. I’m sure you know one or two as well. Most people, though, enjoy learning new things. If we don’t, on some level, stay involved, we won’t be aware of what’s going on around us. It’s happening too fast. Brad Breeding, founder and owner of My Life site, is one of many experts who has seen just how impactful learning can be for older adults. I have written and shared a lot on the benefits of lifelong learning, so I won’t beat you up with more studies or statistics. There’s too much. Instead, today, I will be sharing ideas where anyone, especially seniors, can invest time and energy in furthering an interest or developing a new skill.
- The internet – There are classes and tutorials on almost everything.
- A local college – Junior colleges and local universities have continuing education classes on a variety of topics. There will also be lectures and other opportunities.
- Art school – If you live in a large city, there are probably scores of places to learn watercolor, pottery or another artistic endeavor.
- YMCA – Many have a senior division offering classes, trips, lectures, and other activities.
- Book club – Start or join one to read, study, and discuss anything you want.
- Bridge club – Like to play bridge? Learn from the beginning and soon you’ll be no-trumping like a seasoned pro.
- Local museum – Join for tours, lectures, and classes.
- Churches – Many now offer fitness classes as well as classes on church history and other topics.
The above eight suggestions are just that, and they’re only the tip of the iceberg. There are dozens, maybe hundreds, of other places to hone an interest or skill or learn something new. If nothing else, I hope this short list gives you an idea for one of the above or explore a completely different venue. And if none of this is of interest, then you might just curl up with a good book on any topic you desire.
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