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When we close the door to our careers and set out for retirement, a whole new world of opportunity opens. We now have the time to explore the interests and activities we’ve always wanted to pursue. In doing so, we can experience the advantages of lifelong learning. Most important being the benefits of cognitive health and fitness which come from:
Learning new skills and embracing new concepts are key to staying sharp as we age. We can improve memory, attention to detail, and reasoning and critical thinking skills. The more we use our mind, the better the chance of staving off dementia.
Formal learning
Residents at The Village at Providence Point–A National Lutheran Community will be in reach of some of the greatest colleges and universities in the nation. In addition, our area also houses three locations of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, where adults aged 50+ can take part in programs designed for academic, social and cultural engagement.
Today’s retirees also have endless opportunities to learn virtually. Almost every institution of higher learning has online curricula available. Don’t forget the hundreds of free Massive Open Online Courses (MOOC) offered online. These courses, from top schools and instructors, allow open access to the greatest possible number of participants.
Creative pursuits
Many of us put our passions on hold for life’s many other priorities. It’s time to unleash that creativity and jump back in or try something entirely new. It can be a pursuit of art through painting, photography or pottery making, or a quest to learn ethnic cooking, bread baking or wine tasting. Maybe it’s joining a quilting, scrapbooking or knitting group, picking up that musical instrument you used to love so much or gaining the patience to grow and nurture a bonsai tree.
YouTube videos can help you get started on exploring the right outlet for your creative energy. Local libraries are also a treasure trove of information, often promoting special events for book lovers and other creative thinkers. There is no shortage of learning opportunities if you have the motivation and desire to try.
Outdoor observations
This is where the door swings wide open at The Village at Providence Point, from golden sunrise to vibrant sunset. Whether you join a group or set out on your own, Maryland is a nature lover’s paradise — from the coast to the western mountains of the Blue Ridge and Allegheny.
Bird lovers can enjoy a symphony from the skies, with a number of smartphone apps available for identification and tracking. Hikers can grab a field guide or two and go into the forest to discover native flora and fauna. Maybe try Japanese forest bathing (shinrin-yoku) while you’re there, which is the act of quietly and reflectively being in nature. Shinrin-yoku first became popular in the 1980s as a way to relieve stress and improve overall wellness. It is certainly still relevant today, if not more so.
Mind-body connection
The connection between mental and emotional health and physical wellness has been documented over the years. Healthcare professionals of all types now understand and promote holistic mind-body-spirit awareness for optimal well-being.
Yoga, tai chi and meditation — whether done as part of a group class or on your own in front of a video — all promote whole person health. Learning how to move deliberately, breathe fully and release tension, even for just a few minutes, can refresh your spirit, enliven your body and recenter your mind.
Starting to think about what you could discover next? Learn more about The Village at Providence Point at one of our upcoming Information Events. Sign up now to attend.
Helpful Links
Learning a New Skill Works Best to Keep Your Brain Sharp
Lifelong Learning Attracts Older Adults for Personal Growth and Cognitive Health
Learning Slows Physical Progression of Alzheimer's Disease
