The Benefits of Continuous Learning in Older Age

Introduction

Continuous learning or lifelong learning as it is also known, is the process of keeping your mind stimulated further on and at any stage of life, by seeking out new experiences and knowledge. Continuous learning is so important as it keeps our minds active and engaged which can fend off symptoms of dementia. It can also help our mental health and cognitive behaviour as well as memory. Mental exercise throughout life makes an impact in memory retention. A boost in an individual’s confidence and self-esteem can be gained when learning something new and expanding knowledge. There are different types of continuous learning. The different types offer different benefits, such as eliminating any sense of boredom or loneliness as you can participate in group learning and can fill your spare time with newly acquired hobbies.

The Different Types of Continuous Learning

Our brains are just like muscles, the more you work it and use it then the stronger it gets. When you learn new things, brand new neural connections are formed, which improves your ability to remember. This is why it can be extremely beneficial to try out new hobbies. You won’t know what you enjoy with a new hobby unless you try it out! There are a number of different avenues you can take for continuous learning depending on your desires and abilities including, formal classes or courses and informal learning in the form of extending your hobbies and interests further. Lastly there is the option of web-based learning using technology and online resources.

Formal Learning

You can enrol in a formal learning environment such as classes or courses, some of which may take place in a school or college. Classes are no longer confined just to evenings, there are also options to enrol in part-time, day, weekend and distance learning classes.

You can benefit from improving your problem-solving skills, it also promotes new interactions with other people and socialisation, a chance to meet and make new friends and the advantage to learn from the experts in that particular field.

Informal Learning

Informal learning is a more relaxed approach without set timescales. It can be an extension of your hobbies and other interests such as cooking classes, photography, learning a new language or even an instrument. So, if you are an avid artist already you could pick up a new form like pottery or something a bit different like carpentry.

You can benefit from an increase in your creativity, following your passions and the flexibility to do it in your own pace and unpressured. Increase your happiness and fulfilment. This way of learning also offers the opportunity to meet new people and can help to build a sense of community. Find local classes from your library, council and community centres or day centres such as Age UK.

Online Learning

Online courses are widely available and easily accessible if you have access to a computer or tablet. If not, you could gain access to these courses at your local library so you are still getting out of the house and a trip out. Open Learn by the Open University offers a range of free online courses on a huge variety of topics. You can even top up on your DIY skills from sites like YouTube by following free video tutorials.

This offers the benefit of being a convenient and accessible option for those with mobility issues as you are able to complete the learning in the comfort of your own home. An ample range of topics are widely available at a self-paced manner and often there is no need to purchase equipment or tools.

Conclusion

Participating in continuous learning helps us use our brains to their maximum potential it not only expands your knowledge but offers an array of benefits and advantages ranging from an improvement in cognitive health, boost of confidence, preventing loneliness and keeping your mind sharp. The more we use our brains in life and keep our minds active and engaged, the less likely we will have degeneration in older age.

Make sure you use it not lose it!

For more ways to keep your mind stimulated, please see our previous post - Brain Training - 10 Activities to Stimulate the Mind!