It is a well-documented fact. One of the best ways to fight against the onset of memory loss as we age is to stay intellectually active and to keep learning new things. Not only is this good for our brains, but learning keeps us happier, gives us purpose and promotes overall wellbeing. If a senior citizen is a shut-in, losing mobility or in assisted living, online courses are an excellent option to take on new educational opportunities.
You may need to help your loved one with obtaining the needed technology and teaching them how to use it. But for senior citizens who are still sharp and engaged , a computer or tablet can be easily learned and opens up a new world of possibility for spending their time.
Before getting online, you may want to check out the social and educational opportunities available at the assisted living facility or adult residence. From movies to book clubs, as well as classroom style learning – these facilities often provide ample opportunity to expand thinking. If your loved one is looking for more opportunities to learn, they do have options.
Florida State Colleges: The college system in the state of Florida waives all application, tuition and student fees for anyone age 60 or above, but colleges will award no credit and will grant admission on a space-available basis.
Online College Courses: Senior citizens are returning to the educational system more than ever to earn or finish degrees they began years ago. Older students have the ability to add differing viewpoints to online discussions through their life experiences, and everyone involved can benefit from different perspectives. Although most online college courses are not free, financial aid is available.
The Division of Adult Education and Literacy (DAEL) administers courses which teach basic skills including reading, writing, math, English language proficiency, and problem-solving.
Great Courses Plus in an online community which is subscription based. Some of the world’s best professors are represented, as well as experts from the NAtional Geographic, the Smithsonian, The Culinary Institute of America and the Mayo CLinic. Seniors can enjoy lectures in the fields of Science, History, Travel, Health & Wellness, Professional Development, Photography, Cooking and more. There are over 11,000 video lectures online, and every month this site adds new material. Even better, these cideo pectures can be viewed via tablet, PC or television.
Audible.com provides classic books on audio on a subscription basis ($14.95 per month after free trials). This app is a must for someone who was a lifelong reader but can no longer read physical books, and engages the mind wih some of the best titles ever published.
TED Talks are free presentations designed to encourage the distribution of various cultural ideas and trends. TED’s talks range from on technology and design, scientific, cultural, political, and academic topics. A user can find inspirational, education and informative talks on virtually every hot topic of our culture.
This is just a small sampling of the wide variety of online resources available to senior citizens. Depending on your loved ones capabilities and comfort level, you should be able to find a format which they are conmfortable with and encourage them to coninue to learn and grow. If your loved one is in assisted living, make it a habit to ask them about what they are learning and listening to, which will help with memory and provide stimulating conversation for your visit.
At A Banyan Residence, we understand that a person in assisted living is far from done living life. If we can help you in any way to make your loved one’s life more productive and fulfilling, let us know.
