How to encourage aging parents to continue learning,
and why it’s critical to their health.
By Susan Chaityn Lebovits
As someone who guides adult children in supporting their aging parents, I remind my clients at the end of each summer that “back to school” season doesn’t only belong to kids, college students, and those pursuing a graduate degree. Learning is a lifelong pursuit—one that is especially critical for older adults. Encouraging your loved one to take up structured, ongoing learning can significantly improve their quality of life. Even for those with mild cognitive challenges, a consistent learning schedule offers unique benefits.
Structured activities provide routine—a cornerstone for lowering anxiety, boosting memory recall, and creating a sense of purpose. Research from the National Institutes of Health show that maintaining routines and staying curious is particularly helpful for older adults with memory impairment, reducing disorientation and fostering stability. Another study from UCLA showed that older adults who continue to learn new things relevant to their interests may be able to offset or even prevent Alzheimer’s disease. In fact, scheduled learning also stimulates numerous parts of the brain, helping to strengthen cognitive reserve and slow decline.
Learning later in life also supports emotional well-being as it reduces loneliness, and provides opportunities for social connection. A large study from Stockholm University found that engaging in intellectually stimulating activities was linked to improved memory and overall cognitive functioning.
So how can you help your aging parent? We’ve put together a a list with links to get you up and running before the first day of fall.
Five Ways Adult Children Can Encourage Lifelong Learning
1. Shared Exploration – Browse courses together to spark excitement. Platforms like Senior Planet offer FREE classes in wellness, tech, and more.
2. University-Based Programs – Over 400 colleges host Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes (OLLI), designed specifically for older adults.
3. Passion-Focused Online Platforms – Encourage creativity via edX or Skillshare.
4. Offer Tech Support and Accountability – Help set up log-ins, and remind them about upcoming classes. Nonprofits like CyberSeniors provide digital literacy support AT NO COST.
5. Learn Together – Intergenerational learning strengthens bonds and boosts motivation! Personally, my mom and I are big fans of VIVO, an online exercise program. The classes are live, not recorded, with fabulous trainers and a built-in community in their small classes.
Looking for help to create and implement a program? Set up a Clarity Call to discuss.