“Never let the brain idle. ‘An idle mind is the devil’s workshop.’ And the devil’s name is Alzheimer’s.”
Comedian George Carlin may not be the first source that comes to mind when you’re seeking sound advice for retirement. Even so, his interpretation of a familiar saying about idle minds is filled with wisdom.
You may not be able to prevent Alzheimer’s disease in a literal sense, but you can slow it down. In fact, delaying the onset or progression of dementia symptoms is just one valuable outcome of lifelong learning for seniors. Continuing education in your later years can bring great joy and satisfaction, along with some meaningful health and wellness benefits.
Benefits of Lifelong Learning for Seniors
Exercising your brain to keep your mind busy and your cognitive skills sharp is a smart approach to retirement. If you need some motivation to flex your brain muscle, here are some of the rewards that come with lifelong learning for seniors:
Stimulate cognitive function. The brain is essentially a giant muscle, so it makes sense that frequent use can prevent cognitive decline. Engaging your brain in challenging tasks stimulates neuron connections and growth, which in turn supports your ability to think, reason, focus and communicate.
Delay dementia symptoms. Beyond reducing cognitive decline, researchers believe ongoing learning can actually be a preventive strategy against dementia. Researchers at the University of California, Irvine found physical evidence to support this theory; their study concluded seniors who keep their minds active effectively slow the development of the brain lesions associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
Introduce practical skills. As a senior, you may find yourself needing to learn how to do things you’ve never had to do before. For example, mastering new technology can ensure you stay in touch with loved ones, while learning healthier food preparation techniques can improve your nutrition and reduce health risks.
Improve your memory. Learning a new hobby or skill can help support your memory function. In one study, groups of seniors were assigned activities to master over a period of three months. Those who took on more complex learning activities, like quilting, performed notably higher on memory tests at the conclusion of the study than their peers who engaged in more social or pleasure activities.
Expand social ties. Many older adults find their social circles growing smaller as the years pass. Loneliness and a lack of social connections can lead to depression, anxiety and other mental health struggles, which in turn can negatively affect your physical health. When you take classes or participate in activities that encourage lifelong learning for seniors, you’re likely to meet others who share your interests. At the very least, you’ll have peers to socialize with during class, and your mutual appreciation for a certain subject or hobby could lead to a true friendship.
Discover a new purpose. The newfound freedom that comes with retirement can be both a blessing and a curse. Initially, an abundance of free time may feel like a luxury, but before long, you may find yourself wondering how to fill the days with meaningful activities. The chance to give your life more purpose is another benefit of lifelong learning for seniors.
Celebrate accomplishments. Over time, you may encounter limitations or find you’re no longer able to enjoy the same activities you did in your younger years. Taking advantage of lifelong learning opportunities to explore new hobbies or skills gives you a sense of accomplishment and pride, so you can focus on the present rather than mourning what lies in the past.
Get better sleep. Remember, the brain is a muscle. After you put it to the test, your brain needs a break, just like your body does after a hard workout. A tired mind is less likely to keep you awake, so you can ease into a more restful night of sleep.
Learn How Rewarding Retirement Can Be
Discover a community where you can live and learn on your own terms. At Sedgebrook, you’ll find sophisticated, maintenance-free apartment homes you can personalize to your unique tastes and more than 90 clubs and organizations that inspire you to connect with others, try new things and pursue your interests. Make plans to visit and learn more about our living options, including more than 35 one-, two- and three-bedroom independent senior living floor plans.
