Back to School for Seniors: Enjoyable Classes and Programs

Class is now in session! As summer draws to a close, students are preparing for their first day of school.

This is a perfect opportunity for older adults to enroll in some classes of their own. You are never too old to stop learning. In fact, learning new skills stimulates your mind and keeps it sharp. Research has found that learning new things significantly benefits seniors’ cognitive abilities.

Ready to go to the head of the class? Here are some fun new classes and programs to try.

Hiking and Nature Groups

Love nature? If so, join a hiking group in your area. Find a club that caters to older adults’ ability levels. This way, you won’t feel like you have to overexert yourself to keep up with younger hikers.

Hiking in groups is also safer for seniors. If you trip or fall, people will be around to offer immediate assistance.

Don’t like hiking but still love nature? Consider joining a bird-watching group.

Senior-Centric Fitness Programs

Regular physical activity is essential for seniors. Want to make exercise a part of your life? Enroll in a senior fitness program in your area. Many senior services centers and gyms, like the YMCA of Greater Tulsa, offer exercise programs specifically designed for active older adults.

Some classes to try include:

Yoga
Tai chi
Aqua aerobics
Meditation
Dance classes

Not only does exercise keep you in great shape, but it also improves your mood!

Art Classes

Whether it is watercoloring or woodworking, art classes allow you to unleash your creativity. You can find art classes at your local community college, community center or the Philbrook Museum, which recently launched its Creative Aging program. Making something beautiful and/or functional with your hands makes you feel confident and capable.

Technology Classes for Seniors

Like it or not, technology is an integral part of our world. Technology can also be incredibly useful to seniors, allowing them to keep in touch with friends, schedule telehealth appointments, and order their meds online.

Consider attending a technology class at your local senior services center. You can learn basic computer skills, how to better navigate the internet, use social media, and more.

Volunteering Programs

Volunteering programs, such as the Give 5 program, are an incredible way to support your community, meet new people, and promote causes you care about. Think about what matters most to you. Do you love animals? Volunteer at a pet shelter. Are you passionate about the environment? Clean up your local park. Want to help those in need? Sign up to volunteer at a soup kitchen or donate your gently used clothes to Goodwill. There are plenty of ways to give back!

Learn New Skills with Visiting Angels

Visiting Angels’ Tulsa, OK, caregivers can help you enjoy your new class or program to the fullest. Our caregivers will provide safe, reliable transportation to your class or can accompany you to your programs. They can also assist with medication management, light housekeeping, personal care, and meal planning and preparation.

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