Keep learning… no matter your age!
Who says that getting older means giving up the desire to learn a new language, play an instrument or master the mysteries of accounting? At Le Groupe Maurice, we believe it’s never too late to learn or start again. That’s why, on this International Day of Education, we want to remind you that choosing to keep learning is a strength worth cultivating!
Why is continuing to learn good for you?
We live in a constantly changing world, where technology, globalization and new social dynamics affect us whether we like it or not. In response, UNESCO rightly emphasizes that learning is one of humanity’s most valuable abilities – and our greatest asset for adapting.
Keeping your brain active
On an individual level, continuing to learn proves to be an effective way to face life’s challenges, starting with cognitive health.
We know that global life expectancy continues to rise. In Quebec, for instance, it was estimated at 82.7 years in 2024 (for both men and women). While some may believe that cognitive functions decrease rapidly with age, the reality deserves a more nuanced perspective.
According to the Brain Research Foundation, “a healthy brain is like a muscle that thrives on change but atrophies if it is not used.” In this regard, a report from Harvard Medical School highlights that acquiring new skills can slow cognitive decline, as a healthy brain is capable of growth and cell regeneration throughout life.
The report adds that, although information may be retained slightly more slowly with age, learning – whether physical or intellectual – can stimulate the neural network, engaging abilities such as attention, language and reasoning.
Boosting your self-esteem
It’s worth noting that the benefits of learning go beyond maintaining cognitive functions. In fact, learning also plays a key role in personal growth, self-esteem and overall well-being.
Research even supports this reasoning. In a study published by Psychological Science, adults aged 60 to 90 were invited to learn a new “complex” skill – such as digital photography or knitting – or to engage in more general mental activities, like crossword puzzles. Once participants made their choices, they were divided into two distinct groups.
After three months, the study revealed striking results: those who had explored the “complex” skills showed notable improvements in memory, but more importantly, experienced a sense of pride and renewed confidence linked to their progress.
It should be noted that the so-called general activities are by no means harmful – they stimulate the mind and have positive effects. This study simply shows that learning new skills can be particularly beneficial for self-empowerment.
Promoting social connections
Continuing to learn can also have a significant social impact. Taking a class or exploring a new activity creates opportunities to interact with others. As Dr. Ipsit Vahia, a geriatric specialist affiliated with Harvard, notes, “It’s easy to become isolated as we age, and attending a class or workshop naturally encourages conversation, exchange and active participation.”
Learning thus becomes a gateway to connecting with others. Whether through a virtual study group, an on-site workshop or a themed club, these spaces foster relationships, expand social networks and cultivate a genuine sense of belonging. Such interactions contribute to a vibrant, fulfilling and fully engaging retirement.
Adapting to and contributing to a changing world
As Nelson Mandela said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” As we grow and age, learning can be a source of joy, a way to feed our curiosity and also a means of staying connected to a society that evolves at lightning speed.
The University of Sherbrooke understands this well and has even chosen to make older adults full-fledged researchers. Conducted in 2017 on the theme “Valuing and Demystifying Aging to Maintain Seniors’ Place in Society,” the study involved experts as well as older individuals not affiliated with the university at every stage of the process. The goal was to produce results that truly reflect reality while recognizing and valuing seniors’ participation and social contribution.
“Most seniors want to continue contributing to society. We believe that just because our hair has turned white, we haven’t become useless. Personally, I hope that my involvement helps improve the quality of life for older adults.” – Ginette King, senior co-researcher at the Intergenerational Research Group on Aging of Estrie
This approach perfectly illustrates seniors’ willingness to contribute to collective well-being and underscores the importance of listening to them, especially on issues that directly affect their lives. Not only can they keep learning, but they can also offer valuable perspectives in discussions, influence decisions and leave their mark on a constantly evolving world.
Discover new opportunities to keep learning
If you want to resume a course of study or explore a new area of skills, know that there are many ways to do so, tailored to different paces and goals. Here are a few options:
- Enroll at a university, either in continuing education or as a non-degree student. If you’re a senior, know that there are also Universities of the Third Age (U3A) in Laval and Sherbrooke, which allow you to take courses on topics of interest and expand your knowledge without the commitment of traditional degree programs.
- Take online courses through digital educational platforms or mobile apps such as Coursera, Grenier Formations, LinkedIn Learning or Duolingo.
- Participate in hands-on workshops at local libraries, community centres or cultural organizations, like Les Affutés in the Montreal area or the Art Hives Network in Canada and elsewhere.
- Take advantage of the wide range of mostly free activities offered by your residence if you live in a senior living complex.
When you think about it, continuing to learn – no matter our age – is one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves. Of course, you don’t need to pursue a PhD in aerospace engineering to enjoy the benefits of learning. Every new skill or activity, no matter how small, is another opportunity to surprise yourself, build connections and thrive. So now, ask yourself: What would you like to explore or experience this year?