As retirement slowly but surely approaches, many people start thinking about more than just their housing situation. Besides considering whether their own property is still suitable in old age, other questions arise: What should I do with my newfound free time, and how can I keep my mind sharp? More and more retirees are choosing to pursue higher education. And they're making the right decision.
It is scientifically proven that lifelong learning acts like a fountain of youth for mind and body. Older people who don't stop acquiring knowledge and instead continue to strive with curiosity remain vital and active.
Retirement is the perfect time to dedicate oneself to those interests that were neglected during working years and periods of family focus. For some retirees, this even means enrolling at a university again, or for the first time, or taking adult education courses.
Have you always been interested in art history, and wouldn't it be wonderful to learn more about the paintings you regularly visit at the museum? Or do you still regret choosing a "sensible" subject like business administration back then, instead of throwing all your reservations and those of your parents overboard and enrolling in philosophy? Do you admire young people for their intuitive approach to new media and would you like to be an IT specialist yourself?
Whether at a university of applied sciences or a traditional university, whether enrolled or auditing – it's never too late to learn something new or change your field of study. Anyone worried about feeling like an oddity surrounded by students in their twenties can enroll in a so-called senior citizens' degree program. Around a third of German universities offer these programs specifically designed for people of retirement age; the selection of subjects is extensive. And with auditing status, even studying without a high school diploma is quite straightforward.
Tuition fees vary greatly depending on the university and range from 30 to 300 euros per semester.
But putting yourself under pressure to graduate is something no one needs to do at this age. After all, it's no longer about achieving a professional qualification. Rather, you can now indulge in the luxury of learning purely for the joy of it and to keep your mind active.
But it's not just studying that fosters mental vitality. Broadening one's horizons also automatically leads to making interesting connections. Especially in senior citizen programs, you'll meet like-minded individuals in a similar phase of life. Whether in the cafeteria or preparing a joint presentation, there's ample opportunity to exchange ideas and share tips.
Many older people grapple with very similar questions, ranging from structuring their daily lives in retirement to thoughts about the near future. Where might changes be on the horizon, and which areas of life should be adjusted in good time?
You'll see that you're not alone in your considerations. Questions about housing in old age are also a concern for others. Benefit from the experiences of your new fellow students in stimulating conversations.
And who knows… you wouldn't be the only person over 50 who suddenly finds themselves in a student flat share that is also a senior citizens' flat share.