Learning for the Joy of It: Education Without Pressure

We all remember going to school to learn reading, writing, and arithmetic. If we happened to enjoy those subjects, all the better — but enjoyment wasn’t typically the primary goal of education. As we progressed through our school years, there were countless quizzes and tests designed to assess our knowledge. Once we graduated, there were still things we had to learn to advance our careers or solve problems around the house.

But there was also learning that happened outside the structured classroom — hobbies and interests we pursued simply for the joy of it. That sense of joyful discovery is what inspires today’s growing movement of lifelong learning programs, which provide continuing education for seniors who enjoy learning for personal fulfillment.

What Is Lifelong Learning?

Lifelong learning is defined as “the use of both formal and informal learning opportunities throughout life in order to foster the continuous development and improvement of knowledge and skills needed for personal fulfillment.” At a Life Plan Community — like Santa Marta — you’ll find the freedom to explore your interests and the encouragement to discover that almost anything is possible, no matter your age.

Did you know Laura Ingalls Wilder didn’t publish her first Little House book until she was 65? Grandma Moses and Grandma Layton didn’t begin their artistic careers until ages 78 and 68, respectively. And if you’re considering an adventurous new hobby like skydiving, remember that Al Blaschke — the world record holder for the oldest tandem skydive — didn’t make his first jump until he was 100. He was over 103 when he earned his Guinness World Records title.

What Are the Benefits of Lifelong Learning?

Lifelong learning isn’t just enjoyable, it can also support your overall well-being in meaningful ways:

• Social connection: By choosing to take a class, attend a lecture, or participate in senior discussion-based learning, you can combat isolation through meaningful social engagement. Lifelong learning also provides opportunities to connect with others who share your interests and goals.
• A healthier brain: Learning something new — such as a hobby or skill — can help strengthen memory and cognitive function. Neuroscientists at the University of Texas at Dallas found that older adults who took on mentally challenging activities, like learning to play an instrument or use new technology, strengthened multiple brain networks.
• A healthier body: Research from Harvard and Princeton has shown that higher levels of education are associated with lower rates of anxiety, depression, and many common acute and chronic conditions, including heart disease, stroke, hypertension, high cholesterol, emphysema, diabetes, asthma, and ulcers. Participants were also far less likely to report being in poor overall health.
• Greater happiness: Being deeply engaged in learning something new has been shown to increase satisfaction and happiness. One important caveat: the activity must truly challenge you. The greatest benefits come from the process of mastering something difficult.

Lifelong Learning Opportunities at Santa Marta

Specialized programs: Santa Marta has partnered with an established lifelong learning institute to offer OSHER classes as part of our Lifelong Learning program, providing adult education designed specifically for older adults:

• University-level instructors
• Non-credit courses for seniors designed specifically for lifelong learners
• Lifelong learning without exams or homework — just exploration, conversation, and enjoyment
• The convenience of on-campus classes at Santa Marta

Hobbies and interests: You can experience similar social, cognitive, and wellness benefits by exploring stimulating hobbies such as quilting, painting, digital photography, staying current with technology, and much more.

Like-minded friends: Living in a retirement community where residents actively pursue their passions makes it easier to pursue your own — especially when you discover shared interests with neighbors who inspire and encourage you.

Learn More About the Benefits of Santa Marta

If you’re exploring your senior living options and would like to experience our culture of lifelong learning and vibrant longevity for yourself, contact one of our senior living counselors today.