The joys of being a lifelong learner

There is no age limit to when a person can learn a new skill. It’s never too late, and you’re never too old.  

Trying something new, like painting or learning a new musical instrument, can expand your social circle and possibly unearth a talent you never knew you had. It can also build new neural pathways and hopefully spark curiosity and joy.  

MPR News guest host Chris Farrell and his guests explore the benefits of trying new things in the second half of life.  

Guests:  

• Kate Schaefers is the director of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Minnesota. She also serves on the AARP executive council in Minnesota. Schaefers holds a Ph.D. in counseling psychology from Iowa State University.    

• Andrea Leap is a voice instructor at MacPhail Center for Music and teaches in MacPhail Music for Life department, a music education and creative arts program for people ages 55 and older. Leap recently co-led the first musical theater camp for older adults offered on Madeleine Island through MacPhail. She is also an adjunct faculty member at the University of St. Thomas.  

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Use the audio player above to listen to the full conversation.