Don’t waste your pandemic time; learn something new. You don’t have to wait to start a new project; now is a good time.
Gerontologists have been telling seniors for a long time that stimulating the brain is the best thing you can do for yourself. Thanks to technology and the number of free online classes being offered right now, the possibilities are endless.
When you do something new, you stimulate new neural pathways in the brain. Yes, the brain that you have been fearing was going into a serious decline. “Use it or lose it” has always been a favorite adage, and it is time to see if it is true.
Hit the books instead of spending the days moping around. After 70 odd years, it is frightening to realize just how many things you still don’t know. Aren’t you the least little bit curious? Instant research is good, but serious learning is even better.
What is it that you are curious about? Have you always wanted to learn how to read, or to read better? How about learning how to cook, how to knit, how to speak Spanish, how to play an instrument, how to do home repairs, or paint a watercolor?
Feel the excitement. You don’t have to be perfect in your 70’s…you don’t have to feel pressured to get an “A” in everything. If you find you aren’t any good at whatever, it’s okay; give yourself a pat on the back for trying.
How to get started:
• Take a class. A little harder right now when you can’t go out but attending a class in person is not your only option. There are websites that offer online classes; many of them free.
• Watch online tutorials.
• Learn the old-fashioned way, by using a book. Books remain one of the best ways to learn something new.
• Just try it. Trial and error and learning from mistakes works too.
• Ask a family member to share their expertise.
• Hire a tutor
Never stop learning. It will not only keep your brain healthy but it will give you something positive to do during these trying times.
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