Lifelong Learning: How Study and Curiosity Can Keep Us Connected and Healthy

In Sweden, thousands of retirees are choosing classrooms over armchairs, signing up for courses in everything from languages to politics well after retirement. These older learners say it keeps their minds sharp, helps them connect with others, and adds meaning to daily life.

Why Older People Are Going Back to Learning

In Sweden, a network called Senioruniversitetet offers courses specifically for people over 55. Membership and attendance are at record highs, with lectures on subjects as varied as Nobel prizes and modern technology. Participants say it’s not just about education, but social connection and staying active in a world that often isolates older people.

The Benefits of Lifelong Learning

Research shows that learning throughout life offers several advantages:

• Mental stimulation slows cognitive decline and sharpens thinking skills.
• Social engagement helps reduce loneliness and isolation in older adults.
• Active citizenship and involvement in community life give people a sense of contribution and purpose.

These benefits align closely with findings from global studies on learning in later life. Lifelong learning does more than increase knowledge. It supports wellbeing, social participation, and healthy ageing.

What’s Happening in New Zealand

While there isn’t a direct equivalent to Sweden’s Senioruniversitetet, New Zealand has a strong tradition of adult and community education.

• Adult and Community Education (ACE) classes still run in many regions, offering courses in arts, languages, and practical skills. Flexible, local options help older adults learn in ways that fit their lives.
• Research from New Zealand shows that older adults benefit from tailored education, but there are challenges, such as funding, rural access, and ensuring opportunities are culturally appropriate for both Pākehā and Māori.

In the past, government funding supported night classes and continuing education in many towns, and a shared memory among some older Kiwis is how valuable these were for connection and learning. Although funding was cut more than a decade ago, community groups and local providers still offer many opportunities today.

Why This Matters for South Canterbury

At Age Concern South Canterbury, we know how important it is for our community to stay mentally, socially, and physically active as we age. Lifelong learning supports these goals in powerful ways:

• It connects people across generations and communities.
• It keeps minds active, curious, and engaged.
• It brings people together, reducing isolation.

How to Get Involved Locally

If you’re interested in adult learning opportunities in South Canterbury, you might consider:

• Local community education classes
• Courses at local tertiary providers
• Volunteering or book clubs
• Online learning platforms
• Workshops at libraries and community centres

These kinds of activities are not just fun and interesting. They also support wellbeing and a sense of belonging.