“The population is ageing much faster than in the past”. This fact reported by the World Health Organization is even more striking when you look at the figures: the proportion of people aged 60 and over in the world population will almost double, rising from 12% to 22% between 2015 and 2050. (World Health Organization: WHO, 2022). So, senior citizens make up a large proportion of the population, and what can they do when they reach retirement age?
Some decide to travel, others to see their close ones more often, but many see it as an opportunity to finally do what they didn’t have enough time for before and to learn new things. Whether it’s a new language, a sport, or an art, continuing to learn after the age of 65 has many advantages, some of which are listed below.
Cognitive stimulation
Continued learning promotes cognitive stimulation, which is essential for maintaining mental health as we age. Studies show that intellectual engagement stimulates the growth of new neuronal connections, helping to preserve cognitive abilities. Learning new skills, exploring new subjects and solving complex problems keep the brain active and alert, reducing the risk of age-related cognitive decline (Ferguson Wu R et al., 2023).
Personal development
Learning at any age is a powerful means of achieving personal fulfilment. Discovering new passions, exploring hidden talents and achieving self-satisfaction are essential aspects of life that know no age limit. Continuing education offers the opportunity to pursue personal interests, undertake new projects and find accomplishment in the constant quest for knowledge.
Preventing social isolation
The learning process is not limited to the traditional classroom. Joining study groups, taking part in workshops or getting involved in community educational activities enables older people to remain socially active. This helps prevent social isolation, encourages intergenerational interaction and creates a sense of belonging to a community.
Passing on knowledge and experience
Senior citizens have a wealth of experience and knowledge accumulated over the years. By continuing to learn, they can play an essential role in passing on this knowledge to future generations. Intergenerational mentoring thus becomes a valuable opportunity, strengthening the social fabric and creating strong links between mentee and mentor.
Adapting to social and technological change
The world is changing rapidly, both socially and technologically. Continuing to learn enables individuals to remain relevant and adapted to the changes taking place in society. By acquiring new skills, particularly in the digital domain, older people can stay connected, actively participate in modern life and broaden their horizons.
That’s exactly what the Silver Books project is all about – making digital technology accessible to people of all ages. Our online course will teach you how to create your own audio and digital book through various modules.
References
- World Health Organization: WHO. (2022, October 1). Vieillissement et santé. https://www.who.int/fr/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/ageing-and-health#:~:text=Entre%202015%20et%202050%2C%20la,%C3%A0%20revenu%20faible%20ou%20interm%C3%A9diaire.
- Ferguson Wu R;, L., Sain, D., Kürüm, E., Strickland-Hughes, C. M., Rebok, G. W., & Wu, R. (2023, April 14). One-year cognitive outcomes from a multiple real-world skill learning intervention with older adults. Aging & mental health. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37059695/