Ask the average person, "So, what did you learn today?" and you may well get a puzzled look or a response like, "It's just the same old, same old".   Suggesting that an adult participate in a formal class is enough to send some folks running the other way. 

My mom used to encourage us kids to strive to learn something new everyday.   Some days that happens by mid-morning.  Other days it may take a while.  But nearly everyday I'm faced with the need or opportunity to learn something.  It might be learning how to use my new cell phone, learning how to introduce my husband to a new Spanish-speaking friend or participating in a formal class.  Life is full of opportunities to learn new skills - whether they're learned formally or informally.  

It seems that my Mom was onto something "way back then" and learning that continues throughout life has now earned its own term: Lifelong Learning.  So what is meant by this phrase?  And what's so great about it?

Lifelong learning is about learning that begins in early childhood and continues into the senior years. It is about learning how to learn, and acquiring and applying knowledge and skills throughout life. It is about learning to keep up, stay fresh, and have up-to-date skills, while enjoying a high quality of life and being active and responsible citizens.

Lifelong learning takes many forms and occurs in many settings, including:

• formal education offered in schools and post-secondary institutions
• learning on the job site
• literacy and other programs offered through community centres or libraries
• learning in professional organizations or clubs
• learning at home
• a combination of the above.

Lifelong learning can be self-directed or supported by teachers, professors, instructors, employers, co-workers, mentors, family members, and friends.

The Benefits of Lifelong Learning for Older Adults
The pursuit of knowledge through lifelong learning-whether it's learning how to dance, speak a foreign language, write a newsletter, improve your golf swing, or repair your car-has wonderful benefits for older adults:

• Keeps your mind sharp
• Improves memory
• Increases self-confidence
• Offers an inexpensive way to try something new
• Saves you money as you learn to "do it yourself"
• Gives you a feeling of accomplishment
• Helps you meet people who share your interests
• Builds on skills you already have
• Offers you an opportunity to learn a new skill or trade and increase your income
• Gives you a new interest that you can share with family and friends

So, go ahead - learn something new today!!

http://www.education.gov.ab.ca/reports/special/Report.pdf

http://seniorliving.about.com/od/lifetransitionsaging/a/lifelonglearnin.htm