Education kindles curiosity stems a desire for more knowledge and sharpens our biggest asset: the human mind.

The mind is like any muscle in your body. It needs to be active to stay sharp, especially as we age. Research has shown how vital it is that we keep it that way by continuing to learn. It can improve our cognitive function, as well as lead to a more meaningful and positive aging experience.

However, while learning opportunities for the elderly have opened up, only 2.9% of people aged 65-74 took part in an educational or training program in Europe back in 2019 according to Eurostat.

It’s important to note, of course, that many older people are unaware such programs exist. There are seniors who don’t have any courses available in their local towns. There are those who can’t afford to pay, while others feel they don’t have the time. 

A study by Hillage and Aston (2001) also noted how a negative attitude towards learning, along with a lack of confidence and motivation, is another type of barrier holding the elderly back.

So how can we convince them otherwise? Or is it really mission impossible?

Five factors that can motivate senior citizens to learn

Setting them goals

Our goals are what set us apart. They define our lives, and in most cases, motivate us. Being goal-oriented is something we’re heavily encouraged to be in our youth, but why not in our twilight years as well?

It doesn’t have to be anything major. The smaller, the better in fact. Sometimes all it takes is a simple task to make a difference.

Setting goals can help the elderly live a life that would allow and encourage them to pursue things they truly desire. They can also create a sense of purpose and accomplishment.

The social influence

Education, whether formal or not, promotes the societal involvement of senior citizens.

Taking classes exposes them to a community of well-being in a safe and secure environment, while also getting the opportunity to build lasting friendships with their peers.

This, in turn, can cause a domino effect on one’s stance on education as the influence of an elderly person’s social circle can motivate them to learn new things and take part in more group courses and activities.

A positive experience with learning resources

The learning resources available are another potential motive to convince senior citizens to knuckle and start studying.

The University of British Columbia, in fact, noted this from a group study of older adults. The higher institution researched what motivated them to learn how to use mobile phones in 2012. It found that complex or inaccurate instructions discouraged most of its participants from learning more, especially when it involved resources such as a 300+ page manual. Some people felt ‘daunted’ and ‘overwhelmed’ by this.

Sense of accomplishment and usefulness

From the young to the old, everyone wants to feel useful.

But as we age, and our physical abilities wane, so can our sense of usefulness. This can lead to depression, among other things. However, by learning new skills, older adults can re-educate themselves and help contribute to society, while not carrying the feeling of being a burden.

Taking an online course at HeyArt, for example, introduces them to a new set of skills, a voice in a growing Facebook art community, a list of manageable tasks, and a sense of accomplishment at the end of it.

The health benefits

Studies have shown that learning stimulates the mind which, in turn, fosters a healthy brain. It’s not a theory, it’s a fact. Taking on a mentally challenging activity, like studying art history or learning how to paint, can keep your mind alert and decrease the cognitive decline that senior citizens go through.

The Mayo Clinic, in fact, has claimed that people aged 70 or above can lower the risk of dementia or mild cognitive impairment by staying mentally active with activities like socializing, games, and doing crafts.

There is also the physical side for the elderly to consider as practicing art, for example, can fine-tune one’s motor skills and coordination.

Is it mission impossible?

No, it’s not impossible for senior citizens to become motivated to learn.

While there is still certainly a long way to go for elderly education in Europe, there is hope. From what we’ve found out, an older person’s attitude towards learning isn’t due to disinterest. It’s a lack of self-esteem and a general unawareness.

Other factors we must consider to motivate seniors to learn are how to create a stimulating environment alongside like-minded peers, give them a sense of accomplishment, and keep the course content short and simple.
HeyArt mission is to give you a little bit of focus and peace of mind every other day through Art & Craft learning online.
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