Exploring Purposeful Aging: The Impact of UCF’s Learning Institute for Elders
UCF’s Learning Institute for Elders (LIFE) is experiencing a surge in popularity among retirees looking to continue their education and stay active in their golden years. With a current membership of 798 members, up 148 from just two years ago, the program offers noncredit courses and access to university resources for adults age 50 and over.
The waitlist for LIFE averages between 300 to 400 people, with a wait time of nine to 21 months, showcasing the high demand for this unique educational opportunity. As life expectancy rates continue to rise, more retirees are seeking ways to stay engaged and explore new opportunities for work, leisure, and civic engagement.
UCF’s associate professor of social work, Denise Gammonley, believes in the concept of purposeful aging, where individuals engage in activities that are personally meaningful. Research shows that having a sense of purpose is a predictor of longevity, making programs like LIFE even more valuable for older adults.
One of the ways UCF is taking its engagement with older adults to the next level is through the development of Legacy Pointe at UCF, a senior living community set to open in 2021. This community will offer residents options for independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing, and memory care, with access to high-quality programs from the university.
Residents at Legacy Pointe will have the opportunity to share their knowledge and talents with the UCF community, while students will benefit from interprofessional educational events, internships, and service learning opportunities at the facility. The partnership between UCF and Legacy Pointe will also allow for the testing of research in real-world clinical care settings.
Overall, the growing interest in programs like LIFE and the development of Legacy Pointe at UCF highlight the importance of lifelong learning and purposeful aging for older adults in today’s society. To learn more about senior living options at Legacy Pointe at UCF, visit LegacyPointeAtUCF.com.