It’s back-to-school time, and that includes older adults! An increasing number of people 50 and older are actively learning new things (55% of Americans age 45 and older, according to AARP surveys).

These lifelong learners want to stay mentally sharp, intellectually stimulated or even start another career. Some take a class or two based on their interests; some develop (or refine) a talent or skill; and some pursue a high school or college degree. Many institutions and organizations are scrambling to meet this demand among older adults for learning opportunities that are accessible, affordable and – most of all – age-friendly. 

In this episode of our monthly series NEXT AGE, we’ll hear from some lifelong learners and why they strove to continue pursuing knowledge as they age. We’ll also learn what’s being offered by local universities, non-profits and community groups and some of the efforts to remove barriers that deter some older adults who want to continue learning.

This episode was produced by LaTonya Turner and Josh Deepan. 

Guests: 

Jan Goddard, Vanderbilt University's Osher Lifelong Learning Institute student

Sheila Brown Thompson, graduate of Metro Action Commission Adult Education Program

Dennis Piper, learner at Lipscomb's Lifelong Learning Program

Dr. Brandon Grubbs, co-founder, MTSU's Positive Aging Consortium

Tara Hamilton, Vanderbilt University's Osher Lifelong Learning Institute Program Director

Tom Kamber, executive director of Older Adults Technology Service (OATS) & AARP's Senior Planet