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Life Long Learning - A Virtual Fountain of Youth

August 2007

Studies have shown that continuing education, even late in life, can help maintain or buffer our physical and mental well-being. Education may very well be the long-sought-after fountain of youth.

Researchers continue to find that people of any age who keep their minds engaged in active education live longer and delay memory loss and lethargy. The New York Times recently reported that having money or good health insurance "paled in comparison" to education as a crucial factor in graceful aging.

By state law, all Ohio residents age 60 and older may attend classes at state-funded colleges and universities at no cost. While different schools may call their programs by various names (e.g., Program 60, Senior Audit, 60-plus, SAGE, etc.), the program allows seniors to take college courses for free, with certain limitations:

• They must audit the course and will receive no college credit for their participation.
• Auditing students may not be allowed to participate in all aspects of the course (i.e., exams, labs).
• Participation is limited to courses with available space and is usually subject to approval by the instructor.
• Some costs may apply, such as textbooks, equipment, lab fees and parking.

While an older adult cannot earn a college degree by taking free classes, going back to school does have its benefits:

• Classes offer older adults an opportunity to learn a new skill or trade, or build on skills they already have.
• Classes help older adults meet people who share their interests.
• Taking classes gives seniors a feeling of accomplishment.
• Classes give older adults a new interest that they can share with family and friends.

A Lifelong Learning Institute is a community-based organization of retirement-aged people dedicated to meeting the educational interests of its members. Most Institutes are sponsored by a college or university and provide non-credit academic programs.

The Institutes may also provide volunteer services, as well as great opportunities for members to build relationships with each other and their communities.

Approximately 400 senior centers in Ohio provide educational courses and programs on topics including arts, crafts, exercise, computer skills and more. In Akron and Cleveland, OASIS offers older adults challenging programs in the arts, humanities, technology and volunteer service.

For the more adventurous, Elderhostel provides in-depth and behind-the-scenes experiences for almost every interest and ability.

You can find more information about opportunities to continue learning and growing at GoldenBuckeye.com.

Don't want to go back to school yourself? Consider volunteering at your local public school or Head Start. By tutoring young children in reading and math, you not only help a child, you give back to your community. Again, for more information, visit GoldenBuckeye.com.

Barbara E. Riley