Aging isn’t what it used to be. No longer does retirement mean retirement; it’s now defined more as re-engagement—in a lifestyle that is rich in social interaction and invigorated by continued learning. These days, it isn’t hard for seniors to find energizing opportunities. In fact, scratch the surface of this town and you’ll find out just who’s having all the fun!

continued learning
Washington University’s Lifelong Learning Institute (LLI) was started nearly 25 years ago by a group of individuals interested in peer learning for seniors. Today, the institute, based in its own space on the university’s West Campus in Clayton, has around 1,000 members from 72 ZIP codes and offers year-round classes across four terms.

“We believe you should never stop learning new things,” says director Katie Compton, who has overseen the institute for 11 years. “Not only do we give seniors a way to focus that learning, but coming to class also helps people organize their lives.”

Classes usually meet for two hours once a week; this fall, around 35 different courses will be offered. Compton says there’s something for everyone: current events, literature, economics, history and science. All classes are facilitated by volunteers and cost $150 per eight-week session. A yearly membership also is available. “We have people from age 55 all the way to 100,” Compton says. “The beauty here is that you never graduate.”

the arts 
Located on the edge of University City near Olivette, Crown Center for Senior Living serves as a vibrant community hub, offering enriching art and other programs to residents and non-residents alike. “Our job as a senior community center is to make sure there is a safe, accessible place to go,” says planning director Megan Zimmerman. “We offer barrier-free opportunities for anyone 50 and above.” That means costs of classes are kept low (under $10 for supplies), and the space is age-friendly with bright lights and no stairs.

Currently, Crown Center is testing a new Artist in Residence program in partnership with COCA. Teaching artist Maria Ojascastro will work with Crown Center to plan, create and facilitate a range of visual art programs throughout the year.

“All evidence suggests that engagement in the arts has really positive health benefits for seniors, preventing depression and general decline,” Zimmerman says. “This new partnership will allow seniors with moderate incomes to discover new talents. It’s very exciting.”

socialization 
Because The Gatesworth retirement community knows well the importance of social interaction for seniors, its Friday evening Happy Hour has become a cherished ritual for residents. Each week the scenes in both the Lakeview Lounge and the West Wing Bar are just what you’d expect of any good watering hole—live music (keyboards and ‘cocktail’ piano, respectively), half-price drinks and a spread of tasty hors d’oeuvres. But these things come second to the conviviality between guests, says Kathy Davis, resident program director. “This is a very special social scene, with residents chatting and laughing with their Gatesworth friends and welcoming family members who wouldn’t miss this happy occasion,” she says.

Davis adds that numerous studies show that socialization—having a sense of belonging and acceptance—is important no matter your age. But it’s even more so as we get older. “A recent research study by Harvard University showed that older adults who had active social lives were happier, healthier and more likely to live longer than those who did not,” she notes. “Loneliness can negatively impact an elderly person’s life, while socializing can enrich it. That’s the impetus of everything we try to achieve in programming for our residents.”

other options
>> OASIS: The nonprofit educational organization reaches more than 50,000 individuals age 50 and above each year to promote healthy aging through lifelong learning classes and programs, active lifestyles and volunteer opportunities.
>> THE J: To promote learning and socialization for older adults, the community center provides members and guests opportunities to participate in community events, programs and services. It also offers its own events and programs year-round, including festivals, fitness challenges and classes, and off-site trips.