Just as regular physical activity helps us stay healthy as we age, keeping the mind engaged is equally important. Many continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs or life plan communities) recognize this and provide a variety of lifelong learning opportunities—often in partnership with nearby colleges and universities. One notable initiative even encourages higher education institutions to open their classrooms to older adults.
The Age-Friendly University global network
The Age-Friendly University (AFU) global network began in 2012, launched by then-Irish Taoiseach Enda Kenny. Its purpose is to encourage colleges and universities worldwide to adopt age-friendly policies and programs that respond to the needs and contributions of older adults.
Institutions that join the AFU network commit to 10 guiding principles:
- Encouraging older adults to participate in all core university activities, including education and research.
- Supporting personal and career development later in life and aiding those who wish to pursue a second career.
- Recognizing the diverse educational needs of older learners, from those completing a first degree to those pursuing advanced study.
- Promoting intergenerational learning to facilitate knowledge exchange across age groups.
- Expanding access to online learning options to broaden participation opportunities.
- Shaping a research agenda informed by the needs of aging populations and fostering dialogue about higher education’s response.
- Raising awareness of the “longevity dividend” and the value older adults bring to communities.
- Providing older adults access to university health, wellness, arts, and cultural programs.
- Actively engaging with retired members of the surrounding community.
- Collaborating with organizations that represent older adults’ interests.
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An emphasis on lifelong learning
Today, the AFU network includes roughly 100 universities across Ireland, the U.K., the U.S., Canada, and other countries, and the list continues to grow. One example is Lasell University in Newton, Massachusetts, near Boston.
Lasell University shares its campus with Lasell Village, a continuing care retirement community. Lasell Village provides the typical amenities of a CCRC—dining, a fitness center and indoor pool, social programming, and a continuum of on-site care—while placing a distinct emphasis on lifelong learning.
Notably, Lasell Village was among the first senior living communities in the U.S. to require residents to engage in 450 hours per year of continuing education and programming. Residents can meet this requirement by taking courses at Lasell University or attending programs offered on the village campus.
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Benefits for residents and students alike
The partnership between Lasell University and Lasell Village benefits both communities. Residents have access to university facilities such as the library, while the village provides employment opportunities for students in dining services, lifeguarding, nursing assistance, and internships.
Perhaps the most valuable outcome is the intergenerational relationships that form. Students gain mentors and perspective from older adults, while residents benefit from social connection, mental stimulation, and meaningful purpose. These friendships can improve cognitive function, reduce social isolation, and enhance overall wellbeing.
>> Related: Partnerships Between CCRCs and Universities Benefit Both
Nurturing mind and spirit
Senior living communities offer many pathways to build new friendships and strengthen existing ones. Programs like the Age-Friendly University network and campus-community partnerships such as Lasell University and Lasell Village promote lifelong learning and cross-generational engagement.
By combining education, social connection, and purpose, these initiatives support both the mind and the spirit of older adults, helping them remain active, engaged, and connected to people of all ages.