“Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at twenty or eighty. Anyone who keeps learning stays young.” -Henry Ford
At Home Care Assistance, we believe that every day is an opportunity to grow, connect, and thrive — no matter your age. Lifelong learning isn’t just about keeping busy; it’s about enriching life with purpose, staying mentally sharp, and forging meaningful connections with others. And with International Day of Families coming up on May 15, there’s no better time to explore how learning together — across generations — can strengthen minds and relationships alike.
Benefits of learning
Growing evidence suggests that our brains keep the ability to change and adapt as we age in order to manage new challenges and tasks. Research continues to show that learning activities have a significant, positive effect on older adults’ overall well-being. For example, one study found lifelong learning is “independently and positively associated” with mental well-being, even for individuals considered “vulnerable.” Research has also shown that staying engaged with new hobbies offers better memory improvement than socialization. Surveys report that older adults who regularly take part in learning activities report higher levels of self-esteem, greater life satisfaction, and a lower risk of depression.
Learning something new — whether it’s a language, musical instrument, or skill — encourages the brain to form new connections, a process known as neuroplasticity. This process helps memory, reasoning, and decision-making skills, which are essential to independent living. Dr. Rachel Wu, associate professor and researcher at University of California, Riverside, explains, “[I]f you’re learning new things, a lot of new things, you have the confidence also then to tackle whatever new things you have to be learning to stay independent.”
Group learning fosters connection, combats loneliness, and provides a sense of shared purpose — key ingredients for well-being at any age. In research studies, older adults performed similarly to younger adults on a memory task when learning collaboratively. Those who have a sense of purpose have a 15% lower risk of death.
Sparking lifelong learning (and family connection!)
Looking for a new hobby or subject to dive into? Here are five fun and fulfilling ideas — including intergenerational opportunities that bring families together:
1. Learn a language (together). Use an app like Duolingo or sign up for a community class. Grandparents and grandkids can practice together and even plan a themed dinner night to celebrate.
2. Take up painting or drawing. Artistic expression reduces stress and improves focus. Join a local art class or have weekly creative time with grandchildren.
3. Research family history. Explore ancestry websites together and record family stories. It’s a beautiful way to connect generations and preserve history.
4. Cook new foods. Culinary learning offers sensory engagement, creativity, and cultural exploration. Choose a new recipe each week for kitchen time with family or friends.
5. Join a virtual club. Pick a novel or movie to experience and take part in a weekly discussion about selections. It’s a great way to stay mentally active and emotionally connected.
Professional and family caregivers can play a vital role in encouraging and enabling older adults with lifelong learning. They can:
- Create opportunities by finding classes, workshops, and online resources tailored to interests and needs.
- Offer tech support, from Zoom calls to downloading e-books to trouble-shooting other technology that makes learning possible.
- Celebrate progress because encouragement goes a long way.
At Home Care Assistance, we see lifelong learning as a path to joy, growth, and connection. We’re honored to support older adults — and their families — in discovering all the possibilities that come with staying curious at every age.
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Sources: NIA; Ageing Society; APA; Journal of Applied Gerontology; Edtopia.org; Royal Society Open Science; NPR