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Life Long Learning & Seniors
June 20, 2016 | Blog | Reading Time 3:00 Minutes
It is not uncommon for seniors to face cognitive issues if they don’t stay mentally active and sharp. It is important to find ways to combat this natural tendency so that they can continue to enjoy life and proper mental health. Learning can help seniors avoid mental health decline. Here are some other reasons why lifelong learning is so important for active seniors.
Social Activity and Learning Go Hand-in-Hand
Active, social seniors have an edge on maintaining mental acuity. Continuing education by taking educational courses keeps the mind sharp and helps fight cognitive impairment. Exploring new concepts and continuing to study literally changes the chemistry of the brain and keeps it active for longer. It also enables intelligent discussion with others and opens the mind to new ideas – and even greater mental development. Taking courses at a local college, university or adult-learning institution not only allows seniors to learn in an organized environment, but also encourages collaboration and the opportunity to meet new people. Social engagement keeps the mind sharp and helps seniors avoid the loneliness that can lead to depression.
Learning Helps Seniors Adapt and Cope with Change
The world and society around us are changing constantly. An adaptive mindset is necessary in order to keep up with the changing world around us. Some colleges even offer free courses to help seniors keep learning. Taking exams and completing homework keeps the mind challenged and engaged, says LoveBeingRetired.
Exploring New Interests Allows Seniors to Flourish
Seniors are able to spend time learning and doing new things. USNews says that learning new things – either through college courses, books, or with hands on experience, gives them a way to develop interests they never had time to before.
Psychological scientist and lead researcher Denise Park, of the University of Texas at Dallas, echoes this sentiment. “It is important to get out and do something that is unfamiliar and mentally challenging, and that provides broad stimulation mentally and socially.” For some seniors, that could mean speaking a foreign language, while for others it could mean adopting a new hobby like playing the guitar, or playing a new leisure sport.
Starting a New Business Allows Seniors to Explore Old Passions
Life-long learning may also enable seniors to start their own business. In some cases, there could be less financial risk involved for a senior because they may already be receiving retirement benefits and do not need the income from the business to survive. A new business could enable them to bring in some extra income, meet new people, and provide a productive way to spend time.
Staying Active Helps Stay Mentally Sharp
Staying active is also very important. An active body cultivates an active mind, and active seniors are 2.6 times less likely to develop Alzheimer’s and dementia. At Gable Pines, seniors can lead an active lifestyle and enjoy life-long learning. The residents at Gable Pines have several opportunities to stay mentally sharp and build lasting friendships!
For more information concerning our healthcare programs and the services offered at Gable Pines, please contact us today.