No one ever said that graduating from high school or college meant the end of learning new things. Actively pursuing knowledge and experience is the process called lifelong learning. Many of us engage in continuing education seminars for professional development in our careers. As a senior, you can benefit significantly by taking steps to learn new things like speaking a foreign language, taking music lessons, or learning to dance. When you move into a continuing care retirement community, your opportunities to learn new things and enjoy new experiences greatly increase.

4 Reasons to Make Lifelong Learning a Priority

Embracing life to its fullest includes enjoying new experiences. Not only can you gain many emotional pleasures from learning new things, but your cognitive abilities also reap the benefits. Consider these four reasons to pursue learning continually:

1. You Exercise Your Brain: Have you heard the phrase, “use it or lose it”? Our brain functions through neuron pathways. When you stop learning, these pathways are no longer stimulated. Learning new ideas and skills stimulates your brain and causes neuron generation. When this happens, you find your memory gets better, and you have enhanced attention, thinking, and reasoning skills.
2. You Reduce the Risk of Developing Dementia: Maintaining brain health with increased neuron pathway generation keeps you in better shape mentally. You may even reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s disease and Dementia through cognitive stimulation found in lifelong learning.
3. You Can Handle Challenges Better: Want to decrease muscle tension? Learn to play a musical instrument or read a book. By taking time to learn something new, you start reducing stress in your life, which helps you cope with challenging situations. It is a way to build your confidence and empower you to handle whatever comes your way.
4. You Stave Off Loneliness & Isolation: Yes, learning can be a social event. When you join an art or dance class in your retirement community, you meet new people and forge connections. Being socially active aids in preventing loneliness, a problem many seniors face. Don’t worry if you fear you are not artistic or have two left feet. Painting and dancing may not be for everyone, but anyone can enjoy a nature walk with a friend or enroll in an indoor gardening class.   

Quiz: Which Activity Should You Take Up to “Exercise Your Brain?”

Let Your Lifelong Learning Journey Continue at Wesley Enhanced Living

Give your brain healthy stimulation when you choose to move to a Wesley Enhanced Living community. We believe that you are never too old to become a lifelong learner. We offer many opportunities for you to learn and grow mentally, socially, and physically. Our team is dedicated to you and your wellbeing through nutritious foods, exercise classes, and social activities. You deserve a say in your living arrangement. That is why we offer you a range of senior living options, such as independent living, personal care, rehabilitation, and skilled nursing. Learn more when you contact us today.

Wesley Enhanced Living provides high-quality senior retirement communities for you or your loved ones.  Contact one of our Philadelphia area locations and find out why our seniors love where they live. Our staff is happy to discuss your elder’s needs or your own and inform you of our range of services. Virtual tours are now available. Call us today for more information.