Empowered By Life-long Learning

Learning is an important aspect of aging productively. Studies have shown that life-long learning is key to healthy aging as well as offering benefits to the community as a whole.

While most seniors take courses for the simple joy of learning and making social connections, this experience of joy can result in reduced stress, less medication, and fewer visits to the doctor.

There is a direct correlation between well-being and life-long learning, according to former SFU learning expert, Julian Benedict. Studies show that it offers a wide range of benefits. These include expanding one’s world, developing critical thinking skills, and communicating with greater self-confidence.

North American researchers have found that in addition to enjoying improved memory, mature learners also benefit from boosted immune systems, and reduced levels of anxiety and isolation. A George Washington University Medical Center study even found that lifelong learners were less likely to visit a doctor, take medication, experience depression, or suffer from low levels of morale.

Betty Jacobs

Betty, who is 96 years old, has taken more than 100 Elder College courses. “I’m glad to be back in a classroom, amongst people and ideas going back and forth. It’s so stimulating!”

Oceanside has one of the largest populations of mature adults in Canada. “We are so proud to offer a wide variety of engaging courses for the over-fifty population,” says Robin Fisher, director of programming for Mid Island Elder College.

The educational offerings are easy to access. There are no exams, and no grades. Just dedicated teachers and keen students learning together in a wide range of academic and lifestyle courses. There’s never been a better time, or a more welcoming environment, in which to learn.