While having lunch at my favorite deli, I overheard a woman in line tell her elderly father that she was finally taking those art lessons she’d always wanted. His reply surprised me. “That’s great. I wish I could learn something new.” I was tempted to interrupt to say, “You can, and you do.”
What Is Lifelong Learning?
Learning doesn’t stop when our formal education ends or when we reach a certain age. We all learn something new every day without even realizing it. Did you do a crossword puzzle today? Watch a documentary? Try cooking a new recipe? Travel somewhere new and different? Many people associate lifelong learning with the formal classroom. That’s one form of continued learning, but there are countless other learning opportunities.
Lifelong learning has been defined as the “continuing pursuit of knowledge to build skills, explore new ideas, enhance understanding, and enrich life.” We all have goals and interests. Lifelong learning gives us the opportunity to pursue and enjoy them, as well as discover new passions.
So why is lifelong learning important? Because it keeps us connected to the world. It opens the door to personal and spiritual growth. It keeps us challenged and engaged while experiencing the fun and fulfillment of learning something new. And there are good reasons to do so.
Good for the Mind
The benefits of lifelong learning in your retirement years can bring meaning, purpose, and a higher quality of life.
Studies show that a stimulated mind fosters a healthy brain. Taking on mentally challenging activities, such as learning new technology or how to play an instrument, learning to quilt, reading, or even doing puzzles, can help retain mental alertness, boost memory, and slow the rate of age-related cognitive decline.
That’s one of the great things about a senior living community like McLean – the opportunities for learning are boundless. Our Boundless Wellness Program provides residents with many opportunities to enhance intellectual wellness by keeping your mind active and sharp – with educational seminars and speakers, painting and ceramics programs, book clubs, music appreciations, cooking demonstrations, brain fitness training in the media and technology center — the list goes on and on. Now that’s something to think about!
Great for the Body
Staying active can improve heart health; lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar; reduce pain; and more.
A big part of McLean’s Boundless Wellness Program includes fitness options that range from yoga and weight training to meditation. Ever try a challenging game of Mölkky? You can at McLean! Golf, swimming, pickleball, and tennis are right next door at Hop Meadow Country Club – where our Independent Living residents get a complimentary social membership.
Enriches the Soul
The benefits of lifelong learning for seniors in a social setting are many — and are vital to healthy aging. Surrounding yourself with like-minded peers helps build strong connections and lasting friendships. It also helps fend off loneliness and isolation. Lifelong learning can make a meaningful difference in your overall emotional health. Ask those who live at McLean, where just stepping out the front door opens your world to lasting friendships.
We’re All Lifelong Learners
What have you always wanted to learn? At McLean, we’re dedicated to helping people like you grow through boundless ways to enrich your mind, body, and soul. A limited number of memberships to our state-of-the-art Wellness Center are available to community members age 62+. A Class Pass membership allows you to explore various educational and cultural activities at McLean, in addition to access to group exercise, HUR exercise machines, and personal training. Boundless Wellness at McLean is designed to provide lifelong learning opportunities to help you live life to the fullest – call 860-658-3750 for more information.