You’re never too old to learn something new. And if you live in Delaware, educational and extracurricular opportunities abound for individuals entering the so-called golden years.
From learning cooperatives to tuition-free degree programs and activity centers for older adults, there are a variety of programs available to keep Delawareans active and engaged beginning in their 50s and beyond.
At the University of Delaware, the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) has provided individuals 50 and older with programming since 1980, when the original UD Academy of Lifelong Learning (ALL) was founded. The academic learning cooperative offers classes and activities in all three counties, both in person and online, in addition to providing participants with opportunities to volunteer, teach, exchange ideas and socialize with their peers.
“The OLLI program has enhanced my life in so many ways,” says Barbara Trent, a retired teacher who enrolled in 2011. “When my husband died, I missed the cultural things we did together. OLLI offered a variety of classes in the arts, including opera and theater appreciation. I’ve made so many good friends by participating in these programs, and now we socialize and go to the Delaware Symphony and Opera Delaware and often have dinner together. I’ve found that the social connection is just as important as the educational component of these programs.”
Research tells us that when people stay engaged, they live longer, healthier lives, points out Karen Asenavage, statewide director of the OLLI program at UD. “I’ve had so many participants tell me that these programs help keep [them] alive. In addition to learning new things, they’re making personal connections [and] becoming part of an extended community.”
Connie Benko, an OLLI member and council chair for Kent and Sussex counties, adds, “There’s so much to be gained from being together. [M]any people are newly retired and moving down here who don’t have any connections. They find out quickly that there’s more to life than golf and pickleball. The mental stimulation and sense of community that comes with participating in the OLLI programs has been extremely rewarding.”
At Delaware Technical Community College (DTCC) in Dover, Workforce Development and Community Education attracts older adults seeking personal and professional growth, with courses like nutrition, languages, technology, cooking and the arts.
“A lot of older Delawareans [want] to learn things that will enhance their lives,” says Paul Morris, the divisions’ associate vice president. “They may want to learn how to use an iPad so they can use FaceTime to stay connected to their grandkids. Or they finally have the time to learn something they’ve been interested in for a long time but may not have had the time to explore before.”
The Modern Maturity Center (MMC) in Dover offers a wide range of social, recreational and educational activities for members.
“The main purpose of the center is to provide services for seniors, with the goal of allowing them to age in place,” explains program director Lori Christiansen. “We’re one of the largest senior centers on the East Coast, and most of our activities are free to members, who pay a minimal annual fee.”
MMC includes art classes and exhibits, music, dancing, yoga, trips, and workshops and seminars on myriad topics. Many members also get involved in the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP)/AmeriCorps Seniors program organized by the center.
“My involvement with the MMC has changed my mind about what retirement living is all about,” says Shirley Brown, a former secretary who has been a member of the center for 22 years. “We don’t sit around in rocking chairs all day. I served on the advisory committee for the RSVP program, where we volunteered at local schools, museums and local businesses. It’s become like an extended family. It’s a lot more fun than sitting at home watching TV, and it keeps you active and gives you a sense of purpose in life.”
Tuition-Free Degrees
Delaware’s three public higher-education institutions—the University of Delaware, Delaware Technical Community College and Delaware State University—all offer tuition-free degree programs for residents age 60 and over. The registration period for tuition-free courses begins one week prior to the start of each semester to ensure that students enrolled in full-time degree programs have priority. Older applicants must be pursuing a formal degree and meet all of the requirements for that class. Participants are responsible for the cost of all books, supplies and other incidental fees. Students admitted to an undergraduate or graduate degree program are assigned to an academic adviser from their respective degree programs. The tuition-free benefit does not apply to continuing education nondegree or noncredit professional development courses and programs.
