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Learning never gets old, and FREE makes it even sweeter!

Retirees who want to expand their knowledge and find more social engagement might want to consider going back to school. Certain programs—such as lifelong learning institutes and others aimed at retirees—will let you attend classes for a fraction of today’s typical college tuition.

 

Today, a good chunk of the 78 million baby boomers entering their retirement years are heading back to school to boost their job skills. According to the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC), going back to school has breathed new life into their golden years and given them purpose that they’d been missing.

 

From learning how to make pottery to the details of the civil war, retirement is your time to create a class schedule that suits your interests. Across the country, many universities, libraries, and online programs offer free (or very affordable) classes for retirees.

 

Sharpen your pencils and get out of the house or jump on your computer and log-in. Either way, it’s time to add “life-long student” to your title. To get your research started, we created a list of educational resources—so take notes. And luckily there will be no test at the end!

 

  • Osher Lifelong Learning Institute offers classes at over 120 universities for adults over 50 who are “interested in learning for the joy of learning.” To find a class near you, check out their list or simply search on Google: “Osher Lifelong Learn Institute (and the name of your city).”

 

  • Oasis Lifelong Adventure offers classes on a wide range of topics such as financial and legal issues, politics, and even performing arts. They also provide health and wellness classes, as well as volunteering and mentorship opportunities. Check them out!

 

  • Your local library, most libraries offer a wealth of educational opportunities that range from art and computer classes to volunteering programs.

 

  • Online classes bring learning to you. Check out these free classes:

 

  • Local colleges and universities in every state offer reduced or free college tuition to senior citizens (typically, adults 60 and up, although rules vary).

 

In addition to classroom lessons and meeting new people, learning a new hobby or sport can bring wonderful benefits to your health, social life, and cognitive capacities as well. Take advantage of this stage of life and all the resources available to help you live an incredibly fulfilling and fun retirement. Make a plan, take action, and live intentionally!

 

Make retirement your own. Wherever your educational path leads you in retirement remember, “Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself.” – John Dewey.

 

 

This article is intended for general informational and educational purposes only, and should not be construed as financial or tax advice. For more information about whether a reverse mortgage may be right for you, you should consult an independent financial advisor. For tax advice, please consult a tax professional.