That is the philosophy behind a new learning initiative for seniors in North Bay.
Called “Third Age Nipissing”, this group was started by a committee of several interested volunteers in the fall of 2017. Their plan is to develop and offer programs that will allow the participants to listen to and to engage in discussions with speakers who are well-informed on subjects of interest. Each year Third Age Nipissing will offer two series of lectures, one in the spring and the other in the fall.
What is the third age?
"The first age is childhood; the second age is the time to earn a living and raise a family; the third age has been described as that time of life when men and women enjoy total independence. Our increased life expectancy is granting us a life bonus of 30 years not available to previous generations. It’s up to us to use these years wisely," says a news release from the group.
"Research has shown that people who continue to learn new things well into their retirement are healthier and happier than those who don’t. Third Age learners receive a significant payback from being involved - including increased social interaction, the promotion of healthy brain function and intellectual stimulation. All these benefits help us to live well - and age well."
The Third Age Learning Movement was established in France in 1973 and first arrived in Canada in 1975. Worldwide, there are now many organizations offering Third Age learning opportunities through universities, community organizations, and independent groups.
There are now over 50 such learning groups in Canada with the Nipissing organization being among one of the newer ones.
Third Age Nipissing is offering their first lecture series, titled “The Love of Music” to run on three dates in May:
- May 9 - The Enjoyment of Listening (Calvin Cheng & Geoff Sinclair of the NBSO)
- May 16 – The Love of Music (Dr. Jamie Arrowsmith – Cambrian College & Sudbury Symphony)
- May 23 – We’ve Got Rhythm (Carol Jodouin & The North Bay Ukulele Club)
All three lectures will be held at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites on Seymour Street and will run from 1:30 to 3:30 pm.
Tickets are available at Gulliver’s Quality Books and Toys and Long & McQuade in North Bay.
More information about Third Age Nipissing can be found at its website: https://thirdagenipissing.com .
