Tips for studying later in life
Studying when you’re 60 and beyond is beneficial for many reasons, not only for improving the skills needed in today’s workplace. Learning in your older years keeps your brain active and is an effective way to tackle isolation, loneliness and depression, which can accompany old age. By making the decision to study during this stage in life is a positive thing in itself and is something that you should be proud of. Rather than putting too much pressure on yourself to be the top of your class, just have fun! Here are some tips and things to consider if you’ve decided to keep your mind active with study.
Make a commitment
As it is with any major life decision or change, deciding to study requires an investment of your time, energy and resources. Sit down and have a think about your priorities, weekly schedule and how studying will fit into your life. Work out what you can and cannot manage and set yourself a new schedule including your study commitments. This way you will know from the outset what is achievable within your current lifestyle so you’ll be better able to make a commitment to study.
Time management
Just as you would with food shopping, exercise and any childcare responsibilities you have looking after your grandchildren, you'll need to schedule class time and study time. Be firm with yourself and others in your life about making sure you don’t get distracted.
Get social
Studying later in life might be a daunting experience for some, especially if this is your first time doing any form of tertiary education. Seeking support is always a good idea. Many institutions have both online and virtual spaces where you can interact with other students. Otherwise there is always Facebook, online forums or meet up groups in your local area. Seek out like-minded people in similar situations and see if they want to be study partners or even just catch up for coffee once in a while to swap study stories.
Tech savvy
There’s no doubt technology has come a long in recent times with a number of new tools and clever devices now available. Find out what’s required in terms of technology skills and tools for any study you wish to undertake. If you are a little technology shy, consider brushing up on your skills. Some local councils or state governments offer free technology courses for seniors. For example, the New South Wales government runs the very popular Tech Savvy Seniors program.
Stay positive
Don’t get discouraged if you feel a little shy or out of your depth when returning to study. This is a sentiment mirrored by many students of all ages. Just focus on the fact that keeping your mind active is so good for you and anything after that is a bonus.
Have fun
Don’t pressure yourself to achieve a long list of goals. Take each day as it comes, enjoy the experience and just have fun with it.
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