The time is approaching for baby boomers to start retiring, but just as that generation changed the world in the 1960s, the boomers are this time redefining what it is to be older in our society. Many people who are retiring now do not want to spend their days on a golf course-they would rather be in a classroom.

Whether they do it to begin a second career or just for the sake of learning, more and more retirees are enrolling in college programs and courses that have been created in response to baby boomers' desire to stay active. Returning to school as a retiree can help you improve your memory, boost self-confidence and enhance the skills you already have. You could even increase your income if you decide to apply your new knowledge to a job.

Many Options

If you are a retiree considering a return to education, you will find several different ways you can go about entering a program. Although the topic of lifelong learning has recently become popular, it is not entirely new. Harvard and Duke were the first universities to offer programs for older learners back when the current baby boomers never thought they'd get "old": the 1970s.

Today, many universities provide credit and noncredit programs for retirees and seniors. For example, Boston University's Metropolitan College Evergreen Program offers students aged 55 and up the opportunity to sit in on undergraduate courses for about $50 per course. It also provides special educational seminars geared toward seniors. However, students in the Evergreen program do not earn college credit for their coursework.

Some state schools offer free lifelong learning programs for state residents. Ohio State University's Program 60 allows Ohio residents aged 60 and over to sit in on undergraduate and graduate classes free of charge. The program works on a space-available basis for each course, and the courses are not offered for credit.

More than 112 colleges and universities have adopted the Bernard Osher Foundation's Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes in their continuing education programs. The Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes (OLLIs) are made up of college programs and courses that cover multiple disciplines. There are OLLIs available in 47 states, and programs often include travel, outdoor exploration, cultural and ethnic experiences, small group discussion and social opportunities.

Retirees can even live on a college campus to stay connected to the academic world. Campus Continuum is a company that develops campus-based housing for people aged 55 and over. The housing is located on or near college campuses and tends to be university-branded one- and two-bedroom condominiums. Campus Continuum makes it possible for retirees and seniors to be around scholars young and old, and opens up chances to take courses, volunteer and interact socially. These communities feature group travel, wellness programs and the use of college facilities.

It is also possible for seniors and retirees to enter a study abroad program. Elderhostel, established in 1975, is a nonprofit organization that offers people aged 55 and above the chance to study in another state or country. Elderhostel has programs in every state in the United States, as well as programs in 90 countries. There are no academic requirements to enroll in an Elderhostel program.

Benefits All Around

As a retiree, you want to stay active both physically and mentally. If you want to stay connected with your community and feel you still have more to contribute to society, returning to education may be the way to keep your vitality. Today, people are living longer and fuller lives and may not be ready to stop moving at the age of 60 or 65. Lifelong learning programs are becoming more and more commonplace, as companies are trying to keep the knowledge-base of their baby boomer employees.

Most lifelong learning programs will cost you little or no money. As an older learner, you will find yourself free to learn about things you never had the time to learn about before. You may be able to fulfill a lifelong dream of learning more about art or becoming proficient woodworking. Now you have all the time in the world; now's your chance.

You can also benefit other students and the institution at which you study by bringing your knowledge and experience to the classroom. To locate a lifelong learning program near you, access the Elderhostel Institute Network, check with your local senior center or search by location right here on EducationforAdults.com.