While you may be happy for the years of wisdom you’ve gained since being in your 20s and 30s, you might be missing the mental sharpness you once had. Why not have the best of both worlds? Scientists have found that the human brain changes with age — neurons fire more slowly, for example, and short-term memory recall can be more challenging — but that we often underestimate our capacity to continue learning as we grow older. Negative stereotypes about aging can reinforce these beliefs. However, new research is showing that older adults who’ve committed to immersive study of a new subject show brain function akin to someone 30 years younger. This goes beyond the tired advice to do a crossword puzzle or work a sudoku puzzle every day. The participants in this research study were learning entirely new-to-them subjects, like how to speak a foreign language, use a new piece of technology, or make art. Convinced of the benefits but not sure where to turn to learn? Try these two sources. Most colleges are designed with the traditional, 20-something college student in mind, which may not appeal or be a great fit for adults STAY SHARP AS YOU AGE BY GOING BACK TO SCHOOL
in their 50s, 60s, and beyond. But many universities are starting to cater to an older crowd with lifelong learning programs. One example is the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Washington (UW). UW’s program offers a full course schedule on subjects in the arts, sciences, and current events taught by qualified faculty and provided at an affordable rate. There are over 100 such programs at universities across the U.S. Have a longtime dream to write children’s books? UC San Diego Extension has a certificate program for that! If you’re looking to dive into a single subject or perhaps you’d like to continue working in retirement or shift gears later in your career, certificate programs are a great option. No previous education is required. Most certificate programs are open to all, typically run for less than a year, and easily accommodate part-time learners.
Celebrate your years of hard-earned wisdom but commit to keeping your brain young by going back to school this fall. WELCOME TO THE TEAM, MEGHAN!
We would like to welcome Meghan Karoly, Doctor of Physical Therapy, to our team! Her positive energy is infectious, so be sure to say hello to her if you are in the clinic. Hello there! My name is Meghan Karoly, and I could not be more excited to join the NCWSTC team! I am new to San Diego as I just moved here from the mountains of Park City, Utah, and I am quickly finding out that the beach is where I am meant to be. I enjoy doing all things outdoors, remaining active, and eating lots of donuts. I attended the University of Kansas for both my undergraduate degree and my Doctor of Physical Therapy degree, so I am always up for talking about KU basketball (ROCK CHALK!). I have had my fair share of injuries while playing sports growing up and know all too well what it is like to be a patient in physical therapy; it's hard work, but the end goal of an improved quality of life is worth it. I truly love my profession and look forward to connecting with my patients and bettering their lives through movement.
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