There is growing evidence that physical exercise and mental stimulation seem to help protect against age-related decline in cognitive function and may also delay the onset of diseases associated with old age.
That’s the good news. The bad news is that community-based adult education classes are diminishing.
Here, in Courier Country we are fortunate to have Dundee University Classes for Adults Society (DUCAS).
Ann Auchterlonie, secretary of DUCAS, explains: “Reports suggest that learning helps older people retain mental flexibility and enables their brains to change strategies.
“Recognising the potential impact of an ageing population, government policies on healthy living and healthy societies identify the danger of social isolation and the need for the elderly to remain mentally and physically active.
This semester 13 classes are on offer from Shakespeare’s comedies and writing poetry to post-war film-making around the world and exploring opera.
“The classes provide a social network for people – combating the social isolation which is well- recognised as one of the major problems in old age,” says Ann.
“Loneliness is a killer. Getting out, meeting people, discussing interesting topics all contribute to happier, healthier years beyond retirement. People meet before and after classes. They have a reason to go out.”
The University of the Third Age offers a range of classes organised by volunteers, including walking groups, while voluntary organisations offer classes at Harris and Grove Academies.
Ann is concerned that the future of adult education is in jeopardy.
“The range of classes available for adults in the community has reduced steadily over the years despite successive governments espousing the value of life-long learning, not just in a vocational context but also as a social benefit towards a healthy community. At one stage every secondary school in Dundee accommodated a range of evening classes.
“Today, when a growing ageing population needs intellectual stimulation and social interaction that provision is much reduced and under threat.”
Did you know…?
According to Age UK, there are four building blocks to being active as we age.
Developing and maintaining stamina, strength, flexibility and balance are particularly important as you get older, and can help you carry out everyday tasks more easily, as well as enjoy activities more.
Stamina helps you to walk longer distances, swim and mow the lawn.
Strength helps you to climb stairs, carry shopping, rise from a chair and open a container.
Flexibility helps you to bend, get in and out of a car, wash your hair and get dressed.
Balance helps you to walk and climb steps confidently, stand from a sitting position and respond quickly if you trip.
Any amount of extra activity that’s appropriate for your age group and health makes a difference.
Limit the amount of time you spend sitting watching TV, reading or listening to music. Look out for everyday activities that can help you become more active like walking to the shops instead of taking the car or bus, ussing the stairs instead of lifts or escalators.