Did you know that learning can help you live longer? Psychologist Laura Carstensen, director of the Stanford Center on Longevity, says: “I think most social scientists would put their money on education as the most important factor in ensuring longer lives.” In fact, studies have shown that college educated individuals are expected to live longer than those who did not receive a college education.
Did you know that many community colleges offer discounted rates to seniors wishing to audit classes? Another fantastic and free learning resource is TED Talks. TED Talks are presentations offered by experts from around the globe that cover a multitude of subjects. Find out more about them here.
Formal education aside, learning can come through many different forms. No matter what your age is, learning new things can help keep your mind sharper.
Harvard Medical School recommends taking up a new skill or hobby. You may consider joining a social or special interest club in your area. They also recommend going somewhere new each day. If your mobility is limited, try simply making an effort to notice new things around you.
In Mahatma Ghandi's words: “Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.”