Learning a new skill or topic is always an achievement for older folk, it can be that bit more challenging to go out and get fixed up with a course at the local college. There are far less evening classes available in towns these days. Probably because everyone can become an expert in something or other almost instantly with so many companies investing in online videos of their craft. Many social groups will also be organised enough to set up vocational training courses to keep their senior membership engaged and in the know. Not all ageing folk go into that semi decline after 69.
The biggest social group for women has a fantastic scheme that is free to paid up members – any of their every day courses can be signed up to and they also do more intense sessions in skills that will really help many of them in their attempts to navigate the complexities of running their womens’ instititute group. The one on excel is particularly effective. Called ‘making excel simple’, I was amused to note that it is presented over ten sessions . They are accessible on different days and times so everyone can reach a tutoring session at some time. There are also some really engaging travel videos which have a college lecturer walking around a particularly fashionable part of any city in the UK. It is wonderful to just sit and watch someone else doing all the work. I am particularly drawn to any videos of folk walking around London, showing me the beautiful buildings that we never get a chance to see when just meandering around as lost tourists. Some of the Inns of Court in London are spectacular!