Remaining mentally and physically active
Research has proven that, as we move into our semi-retired or retired life – our third age – we need to continue to improve our cognitive skills: our memory, comprehension, attention span, our perceptions, and, importantly, our processing speed. For retired or semi-retired seniors, remaining mentally and physically active slows the decline of cognitive function and in turn, minimises cognitive impairment.
Sydney u3a is all about this! Remaining mentally and physically active as we move forward into this, our special third age.
Research over decades recognises the importance of continuing to exercise as seniors – mentally and physically, socially and emotionally. Rush University in Chicago is but one such organisation that has continued an investigative research into memory and aging issues. One striking result from their studies is that retirees remaining mentally and physically active were 2.6 times less likely to develop dementia and Alzheimer’s disease than retirees with less mental activity.
Amidst the golden years of life, the elixir that we seek is found within the philosophy of Sydney u3a: learn, laugh, live. Our spirit flourishes when the mind and body
are vibrant with vitality. The magic of learning keeps the mind alive and nimble, while engaging in physical and social activities fosters a healthier body. Thus, the cornerstone of Sydney u3a’s wisdom lies in the belief that nourishing both the mind and body is essential for a fulfilling retirement. Its courses and classes, activities and events beckon to all seniors seeking to imbue their lives with continuing vitality.
Sydney u3a is a highly inclusive organisation in which peer support and knowledge sharing are vital to our mental growth. We call it Sydney u3a because we want u to enjoy your 3rd age: to share your ideas, to have fun, to socialise: remaining mentally and physically active. The specialness of retirement is TIME – and that is what Sydney u3a focusses on.
As a semi-retired or retired person, the joy of continuing to exercise your mind and your body through activities, presentations and courses you choose is your contribution to your mental and physical well-being. And Sydney u3a has it all – from active sport to creative arts, from learning about new happenings in the Sciences to learning more about the diverse fields of History, from philosophical discussion groups to wonderful social activities – Sydney u3a has the best courses for retired and semi-retired people – u in the 3rd age.
