Lifelong learning means keeping your mind and body engaged – at every age – by actively pursuing knowledge and experiences. Lifelong learning is being constantly curious. It is realizing that the world is an infinitely fascinating place and that you’ll be happier, more motivated – when you keep yourself learning for a lifetime.

The purpose of learning is growth, and our minds, unlike our bodies, can continue growing as we continue to live. – Mortimer Adler, author/philosopher

Lifelong learning is so important to seniors, in fact, it’s been awarded its own catchphrase, called “Brain Training” or “Brain Fitness,” and the experts say it’s here to stay.

What’s the Big Deal?

With an aging population, increasing dementia and Alzheimer’s rates, and a nation that’s focused on prevention, the big deal is that now is the perfect time to match up a supply of brain-training opportunities with the growing demand. SharpBrains.com estimates the brain fitness market stimulated brains and the software industry’s pocketbooks to the tune of about $850 million in worldwide revenue in 2008, driven primarily by companies like Nintendo’s introduction of their Brain Age and Brain Training games. Similarly, games like Sudoku have gained in popularity at the same time and for the same reason.

According to a 2008 Rhode Island News article, computerized “brain gyms,” with games designed to boost memory and attentiveness, have sprouted up in 400 assisted-living centers and rest homes across the country, according to one estimate.

Health insurer Humana is offering brain teaser software to Medicare recipients at discounted rates.

AARP is urging seniors to eat kale, mackerel and other “brain-healthy” foods.

And last year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention laid out a National Public Health Road Map to Maintaining Cognitive Health, designed to boost awareness and encourage more research in the field.”

Even insurance companies want a piece of the action. CNN recently reported that “Insurance company Allstate announced in October plans to distribute a brain fitness program developed by software maker PositScience among drivers 50 years and older. The company wants to see if the software, which trains visual-related parts of the brain, will lower accident rates among older drivers.”

Scientists say, “It’s good for you.”

According to psychologists at the Economic & Social Research Council, just as physical exercise keeps your body strong, mental exercise keeps your mind sharp and agile. When you continue to learn and challenge yourself, your brain literally continues to grow. An active brain produces new nerve cell connections that make your brain sharper, no matter what your age. There are emotional benefits, too. Lifelong learners feel better about themselves and gain a sense of accomplishment.

We have a hunger of the mind, which asks for knowledge of all around us, and the more we gain, the more is our desire; the more we see, the more we are capable of seeing. – Maria Mitchell, astronomer

Get sharper by setting goals.

Have you thought about how you’re going to keep your brain sharp as you continue aging? Will you start with brain training computer software? Sudoku? What about a trip to a Brain Gym? Or, are you interested in completing a high school or college degree that you didn’t finish? Do you want to study abroad? What about taking a memoir-writing class “just for fun?” Whatever appeals to you, determining your goals and next steps will focus your efforts and help you get there faster. The online goal-setting guide Adult Learners 101 may help. It also includes several links related to ongoing education: Find What You Want Fast.

You must learn day by day, year by year, to broaden your horizon. The more things you love, the more you are interested in, the more you enjoy, the more you are indignant about, the more you have left when anything happens. – Ethel Barrymore, actress

Stay sharp by volunteering.

The idea of service learning begins with a simple concept: “you teach me; I’ll help you.” Educational, scientific, disaster-relief and non-profit organizations of all kinds need volunteers to function. They’re often willing to supply training at no cost. As a service learning volunteer, you could help out a cause or organization you believe in while you learn new skills and receive interesting experiences. Volunteer opportunities are practically endless. Your local United Way chapter can help you get involved. A quick search on your Internet browser will also give you plenty of organizations to choose from.*

Growth is the only evidence of life. – John Henry Newman, theologian

Stay sharp through travel.

Educational travel companies take the standard vacation and turn it into a hands-on classroom on-the-go. Companies like Elderhostel, TraveLearn and ShawGuides will take you to dozens of countries from Antarctica to the Azores, Copenhagen to the Congo or to any of the 50 states and offer thousands of learning adventures in history, culture, nature, music – wherever your interests take you.

It has always seemed strange to me that in our endless discussions about education so little stress is laid on the pleasure of becoming an educated person, the enormous interest it adds to life. To be able to be caught up into the world of thought – that is to be educated. – Edith Hamilton, classicist

Decide what you’re willing to spend.

Costs vary. A 17-day trip to Morocco with Elderhostel will cost you over $3,000. Service Learning volunteer opportunities are usually free unless travel or lodging is involved – which is often very inexpensive. Check out local colleges. Senior citizens may be able to take classes free or at reduced rates. If you’re pursuing a formal education degree, the school you attend may have grants or scholarships available. When coursework is through an “online school,” there’s sure to be an area on the website that reviews financial aid options. Buy Sudoku books or brain fitness software. Sign up for a “brain exercise class” or go to a brain gym.

The bottom line is that mental exercise is just about as important to staying vibrant, active and outgoing as physical exercise. How will you get yours?

The more you know, the more you can. – Anonymous

For related articles on brain fitness and brain training, try the following links:

Seniors Use Brain Training Software to Sharpen Their Minds
By: Bob Moos
Source: The Dallas Morning News
February 8, 2009

At the Brain Gym
By David Scharfenberg
Source: The Providence Journal
Sunday, April 27, 2008

Brain Resources for Seniors
Sponsored by the Dana Foundation

SharpBrains
A market research and advisory company geared toward the cognitive health market

What do you do to keep your mind in top shape? Share your ideas on the discussion boards!

Sources:
The Providence Journal;Sunday, April 27, 2008
Brain Resources for Seniors(http://www.dana.org/resources/seniors/)
Sponsored by the Dana Foundation
SharpBrains(http://www.sharpbrains.com/)A market research and advisory company geared toward the cognitive health market