Grey Matters - January Edition
By Annette Gerdes, General Manager - Goderich Place Retirement Residence
Id like to take this opportunity to wish each and everyone of you a Happy New Year, may you have a joyful, and healthy year.
The New Year is always an opportunity to reflect on the past year and set goals for the new year. As the year begins, there’s no better time to embrace the concept of lifelong learning. Whether you’re exploring a new interest or passion, mastering a new skill, or simply feeding your curiosity, learning has countless benefits for all.
Why Lifelong Learning Matters:
Learning isn’t just for the young, it’s for the young at heart, too! Studies show that staying mentally active can improve memory, boost mental health, and even delay the onset of dementia. Beyond the health benefits, learning fosters a sense of purpose, encourages social connections, and keeps life exciting and fulfilling. Staying curious is what keeps us all motivated to learn and explore new things, keeping us relevant. I think of it as exercise for the mind.
Ways to Embrace New Ways of Learning:
The beauty of learning new skills is that it enriches the mind and expands your knowledge. Here are a few ways to get started.
1. Join a Local Class or Workshop: many community centres and libraries offer classes tailored for seniors, ranging from painting and pottery, to gardening and games such as euchre and scrabble and more. These are also great opportunities to meet like minded people, have lively conversation and stay social (particularly in the winter months).
2. Dive into Technology: if you’ve ever been curious about developing skills on a smartphone, exploring social media, or learning how to use zoom and facetime with friends and family, now’s the time. Tech classes for seniors are readily available and can help you stay connected with family and friends while building new skills. Check the local community centre for classes.
3. Take Online courses: colleges and online schools have created platforms to provide affordable (or free) online courses on nearly every topic imaginable. From exercise, art, photography, and history, the possibilities are endless.
4. Start a Book Club: if you love to read, consider starting or joining a book club. It’s a wonderful way to explore new ideas and foster friendships.
5. Learn Through Volunteering: sharing your skills or experiences with others can be a rewarding way to feel fulfilled and learn. For example, mentoring young people or teaching your craft or skill to a local group could provide a fresh perspective and new knowledge.
Overcoming Barriers: some of us hesitate to dive into learning new things due to concerns about cost, accessibility, or feeling out of place. The good news? Many resources are free or low cost, and online tools make it easier than ever to learn from the comfort of your home, and you will discover that many people feel as you do, and you will be at ease. Remember its never too late to start.
2025 – As we step into the new year consider acquiring new skills and knowledge for your new year commitments. Whether it’s trying something new or returning to a beloved pastime, every step you take enriches your life and sharpens your mind.
So, what will you learn this year?
Cheers,
Annette
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