Senior Advisor:Keep your mind young through lifelong learning

Life—for most people—is a process of discovery—and the more we learn, the thirstier we become to find out even more.  While that journey of discovery may begin while we are in school, it doesn’t have to stop there.  There are many ways to continue the journey that is the true meaning of lifelong learning.

I’ve found that you don’t have to go back to school to keep your youthful vitality.   You can make learning part of your life at whatever stage you find yourself. Henry Ford got it right when he said that "Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at 20 or 80. Anyone who keeps learning stays young. The greatest thing in life is to keep your mind young."

Opportunities to learn abound.  For example, Elder Hostel allows seniors to learn as they travel the world in the company of other people who believe that learning is one of the best parts of life.  Classes at community colleges, library book clubs, and investment clubs provide additional mind-expanding options.   Learning the computer opens up the entire Internet as your personal online university. 

The Summit of Uptown provides many opportunities for seniors to continue this fascinating journey as well.  They may discuss current events in the lively News and Views, or share their thoughts on everything from the classics to the latest best seller in Book Club or hear interesting lectures on a variety of topics from the Park Ridge Library or visit exotic locations around the globe via travelogues.   At the Summit, learning is for the duration of the course—and that course is not just for school or college, but truly for life. 

There are always choices when it comes to dealing with anything in life—and one of those things is finding a way to keep your mind active.  You’re in charge.  It’s up to you to decide just how many books, classes, lectures—or anything else for that matter—that you want to keep in your schedule.

For questions and comments, you can call me at 847-825-1161, email me at audrey@summitofuptown.com , or write to me at The Summit of Uptown, 10 N. Summit Ave., Park Ridge, Ill 60068.