Learning is a life-long process. As Seniors we should appreciate that as long as we don’t stop learning our minds will remain young.
Research has shown that our brain has a capacity for learning that is virtually limitless. Research has also shown that there are different learning styles. This means that as long as we continue to “practice” the personal style(s) that bring us the most enjoyment, our brain will continue to absorb information and knowledge and stimulate our good feelings.
As a Senior, I have interpreted from my readings that the more we feed our brain the smarter we get. This is very comforting to know because it enables us to continue to confidently match wits with the younger generation. Moreover our older brains and accumulated knowledge also qualify us to out think them and even teach them several things if our memory doesn’t let us down.
It is generally accepted that there are seven forms of learning styles and qualities that apply to young students. I would like to suggest that because learning is an ageless process, the same learning styles can be applied to Seniors. We simply have to continue to use and enjoy the one(s) that best fit our natural tendencies. Following are a few Senior interpretations of these styles:
(1) Auditory and Musical – possessing a good ear for music, singing and humming
(2) Visual – doodling, drawing, observing, and interested in shapes, patterns and art forms
(3) Verbal – writing, reading, speaking, making notes, expanding one’s vocabulary and telling stories
(4) Logical and Mathematical – good with numbers, patterns, systems, and a tendency to group and classify subjects and relate well to history, geography and sports events and pertinent dates, happenings and statistics
(5) Physical – preference to get hands dirty and learn from doing, energetic, action oriented, competitive and less inclined to spend time reading and writing
(6) Social – outgoing, good communicator, preference to interact with groups and friends, sensitive and understanding, and minimizes time being alone
(7) Independent – preference to being private and self-motivated by personal interests and undertaking individual work challenges
Whatever forms of natural learning we prefer, it is important we continue to employ them and enjoy them. They will be most useful as we age and adapt our learning and our lifestyles to the ongoing technical advances and “new norms” that we are experiencing. It is also worth noting that the Pandemic has imposed major economic, social and wellness stresses that have impacted each of us in many different ways.
I would conclude the above thoughts with a reminder that we each retain a positive outlook every day and know that through our daily prayers, we will be provided with the strength to prevail.
