It is good for us old dogs to learn new tricks as they say. Have you ever said, “If I knew then what I know now things would have been different?”
We have been given a second chance. There are so many opportunities for us more mature adults to learn about things other than funeral planning, social security and Medicare. We can take classes to learn about things we never imagined we would have the chance to do.
Most colleges have programs for older students. As long as you are over the age of 60 and sometimes as young as 55 you can go learn with the generation that is going to take care of us in our old age.
You can go back to school and take the classes you want to take. No one will tell you what you have to take! Why not? There are many free or small fee opportunities offered and there is always room to learn something new. Exercising our brain is just as important as exercising our body. In fact, keeping our minds and bodies active keeps us young. You can audit classes at most universities and colleges. Perhaps you have always wanted to paint or play a musical instrument. Local Art Museums offer art classes and the New Horizons Band Program teaches us “old dogs” new tunes providing an opportunity to be a part of a music group even if you have never played a musical instrument before.
You say you are computer challenged and that ‘new fangled contraption’ sitting collecting dust is for the young whippersnappers? Not true…millions of boomers and seniors are hooking up to the Internet and learning. Not only are they learning how to operate the computer and get online, but also there are things like photography, medical information and talking to long distance family members and friends instantly…without a 44 cent stamp. (is that what it costs now)?
Can’t get to the grandsons soccer game or see your granddaughter in her prom dress? They can take pictures and send them to you in an instant. You do not need to miss a moment in anyone’s life. You can travel anywhere in the country and hook up to receive those letters from the loved ones. Any where you ever wanted to go you can do so on the net. Yes, you can make travel plans but you can go anywhere in the world just by pushing a few buttons, you truly can see the world. Not only is it fun, but also you can learn anything you ever wanted to learn just by, as the younger generation says, “surfing the net.”
There is knowledge to be had out there and as a “seasoned citizen."
For more information contact these facilities or others close to you. Most have websites you can visit. Local High Schools and Technical Schools offer Adult Education Classes. The University of Akron, Sixty Plus Program, 1-800-655-4884 or 330-972-7077, New Horizon’s Band Akron/Canton contact CIC Music 330-928-6000, Kent State University Senior Guest Program 330-672-2002. Also Walsh College and Malone offer programs.
