Lifelong Learning and the Joy of Staying Curious
Growth is often measured by milestones or achievements, but it can also be gauged by a person’s willingness to keep learning. Lifelong learning opportunities take center stage at Lenbrook. This blog series on well-being is inspired by gerontologist Dr. Kerry Burnight’s book “Joyspan,” which Lenbrook Residents have been discussing.
Burnight encourages thinking beyond how long or how well we live and considering how fully we engage with life. It was evident in many spirited book club conversations about “Joyspan” that the key to growth for many Lenbrook Residents is staying interested in the world around them. Learning throughout every stage of life helps people stretch their minds, explore new perspectives, and remain open to possibility.
Helene Zusmann has lived at Lenbrook for five years and sees lifelong education as essential to well-being. “There are so many opportunities for intellectual development here,” she said. “We must keep growing today more than yesterday and always look forward, not back.”
Learning takes many forms at Lenbrook. There are regular speaker series featuring distinguished experts, resident-led discussion groups around current events, book reviews, and lively trivia competitions. Some are structured, like lectures and forums in the Event Center. Others happen in casual conversations over a meal or in cultural excursions with neighbors to see the latest art exhibit or musical performance.
For residents who want to dive deeper into topics of interest, Lenbrook partners with Oglethorpe University to offer enriching, professor-led courses in small, lecture-style settings, along with additional instructor-led learning opportunities. Combined with the daily rhythm of clubs, conversations, and events, it is one more way Lenbrook supports intellectual curiosity and fosters an environment of growth.
“True well-being comes from finding the right balance of nurturing all dimensions of wellness – physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, social, and vocational,” said Lindsey Farmer, Director, Enrichment. “Words like vitality and engagement are used to describe Lenbrook because the programs available here constantly give this community new ways to connect with each other and the wider world.”
For Ms. Zusmann, being surrounded by others who share that mindset makes all the difference. “It’s important to be around people who are interested,” she said. “That’s what’s so special about Lenbrook. People here continue to learn and to stay engaged in life.”