Learning for a Lifetime

Emily King

According to Albert Einstein, “Wisdom is not a product of schooling, but of the lifelong attempt to acquire it.” If you’re not into physics, don’t worry, he was talking about much more than the theory of relativity. Learning of any kind, whether it’s a foreign language, new craft, or a course on war history, is a powerful tool for keeping your brain healthy.

There are mountains of evidence that learning new skills can improve memory, help maintain cognitive function, and may even delay the onset of dementia (source: Alzheimer’s Association). Neuroplasticity, the brain’s amazing ability to adapt and change by modifying its structure and functions, continues well into old age (source: Harvard Health Publishing). So, you can, in fact, teach an old dog new tricks. 

Use this guide as your first step to discovering learning opportunities in your area. 

Local Libraries

When in doubt, visit your library! Besides being your local source for reading material, libraries often host a variety of programming for learning opportunities, close to home. If reading is your passion, you’ll find writing and book clubs. Here is a sampling of different classes, workshops, and clubs available at some of the libraries in our area:

Introduction to Preserving – Learn the basics of canning and drying food in this two-hour workshop, courtesy of Penn State, Mars Area Library, August 16, https://www.marsarealibrary.org/

3D Printing Demo—Cranberry Public Library’s recent ad dition of their “Maker Space” gives local creators access to equipment like embroidery and sewing machines, a Cricut Maker, laser cutter and engraver, and 3d printers. They offer demos on all the equipment regularly. For more information and a schedule of events, check out their website at cranberrytownship.org/2742/Makerspace.

Sahaja Meditation—Learn how to maintain stillness through the noise of everyday life.  Learning meditation can help reduce stress and anxiety, improve focus and concentration, and can lead to better sleep. This weekly meditation program at Northland Public Library is free and all levels are welcomed. Learn more at sewickley.librarycalendar.com.

Colleges and Universities

Osher Lifelong Learning Institute – University of Pittsburgh—The University of Pittsburgh has an impressive offering of learning programs specifically for adults aged 50 and older. Course categories include lectures, discussion, and active learning, which all require varying degrees of participation and commitment. A few examples of programs include: “Beginning Spanish”, “Baroque Art”, “Pennsylvania Government and Politics”, and “Eastern European Wines”. For more information, check out www.olli.pitt.edu/

Community Colleges— Community College of Allegheny county (CCAC) and Butler County Community College (BC3) both have great community education departments that offer in-person and virtual courses for adults. From “Algebra 2” to “Craft Beer Appreciation”, the opportunities for learning are endless. Go to ccac.edu or bc3.edu for course listings. 

LaRoche University—The Sister Candace Introcaso Center for Lifelong Learning brings several community education programs for local learners. Their “Adventures in Lifelong Learning” is a membership-based program for adults aged 50 and older and includes learning opportunities in art, technology, fitness and more. Visit laroche.edu/lifelonglearning for more information.

Museums and Culture

Carnegie Museum of Art—This renowned art museum in Pittsburgh recognizes the importance of lifelong learning, which is reflected in their “Mindful Museum” program. “Mindful Museum” is weekly experience that includes activities like chair yoga, drawing and artmaking, 30-minute guided museum tours, meditations, art history classes, and online learning. You choose your path for learning and connecting. Learn more at carnegieart.org/programs/mindful-museum/.

Phipps Conservatory—Grow your mind while exploring the world of nature around us. Phipps Conservatory offers an abundance of classes like garden design, botanical arts and crafts, culinary arts, and wellness experiences. For more details, visit Phipps.conservatory.org.

The Frick—Step back in time as you visit the one-time home of Henry Clay Frick, the wealthy industrialist and art collector who helped shape Pittsburgh. Visitors to The Frick can see the Clayton Mansion, The Frick collection of fine art, a collection of antique cars and carriages, and the beautiful grounds and gardens. Beyond just visiting, the Frick offers learning opportunities for adults, like lectures and talks on art history, architecture, and preservation. Explore hands-on workshops in watercolor, embroidery, and decorative arts. For more information about the Frick’s current offerings, visit thefrickpittsburgh.org.