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Back-to-School -- for kids and retirees too!

We all have memories of going back to school – locker assignments, meeting your homeroom teacher, shopping for school supplies and looking forward to a new learning experience.

Whether you're helping get the grandkids off to school or thinking about getting some classroom experience yourself, fall can be an exciting time to kick-off a new focus on personal learning goals and projects.

Many older adults take advantage of lifelong learning opportunities such as taking a college course in a topic that's always been of interest, discovering how to plant a vibrant garden or learning how to create a green environment at home. Informal opportunities are also sometimes available at your church, community center or local book store for scheduled readings, seminars or other educational events – usually free of charge.

Research shows that educational activities force you to learn new facts and keep you thinking on your feet. Learning helps keep your brain moving and the interaction with others helps ease stress that can slow down memory.

Keeping our brains energized, like continually exercising our bodies, is important to everyone's good health. No matter what activities you choose, remember to be active and eat right. Exercise keeps the blood flowing and makes you feel energetic and alert. Eating healthy gives your mind and body the fuel it needs to stay active.

Here are some fun and easy ways to keep your mind in top form:

Check out your local college.
Did you know that many universities and colleges offer free tuition to students over 60? Plus, there are often free lectures in history, science, business, and many other topics offered at local learning institutions. Often, you'll even see national experts providing lectures advertised in the newspaper.

Try adult education.
Learn and enhance everyday skills in classes on gardening, cooking, flower arranging, cake decorating or woodcarving. Take courses in computer skills, tax preparation and nutrition to expand your horizons Classes such as these are usually offered at a local school or church facility.

Trade skills with friends and neighbors.
Exchange knowledge with others by teaching them how to knit and, in turn, they can teach you how to craft a perfect clay vase. Share your ability to fix a car with someone who can teach you about woodworking. Whatever your particular skills or favorite hobby, you'll likely find someone else who is thrilled to get some hands-on training.

Work with kids.
Nothing keeps you young like being with children. Tutor in the local schools. Help grandchildren with their homework. Go on field trips with a school group or volunteer to teach Sunday School. (Rumor has it that teachers wind up learning as much or more from their students.)

Visit the local library.
September is National Library Card Registration Month. If you don't have a library card, now's the time to sign-up. Check your local library for event schedules. Many offer brown bag luncheon series featuring local speakers. Sign up to talk about your recent trip.

It's fun to learn! With so many different ways -- formal classes, fun courses, volunteering, social groups --you may find you stay healthy and happy when you exercise your mind as well as your body.

Hurry! Don't wait! Openings are still available at a learning center near you!

Here are a few links to get you going:
 
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