Health Touches

Neurologist Oliver Sacks cites a case of a man who was struck by lightening and who suddenly had a desire to listen to and play classical music on the piano. The man was in his forties and had never played a musical instrument nor had he previously had any interest in classical music. Nevertheless, he was able to learn how to play piano pretty well and even to compose music.

Physicist Bodil Jonsson in Sweden has been involved with a project that gives adults with disabilities the possibility of using technology to communicate through pictures. Her work records extensive language learning and development as a result, by middle-aged people with significant mental handicaps.

While these are just two instances, from these two it becomes clear that the possibility of learning something major such as music or language does not cease as one becomes an adult. It is true that learning something as a child can look and feel different from learning something as an adult; nevertheless, adults are capable of learning. It is a tragedy when an adult has a desire to learn something and then chooses not to pursue that thing because of the false belief that he or she is incapable of learning it.

Not only are adults capable of learning new things in middle and advanced age, but the process of learning is good for the brain. Learning actually changes the brain in positive ways, creating new or strengthened connections between the cells that make up the brain. In fact, learning new things on a regular basis can stave off forms of brain deterioration such as dementia.

With the internet, learning is easy. There is no need to make a trip to the library to find out some information. When you find yourself idly wondering, “How do they do that?” or “What is the meaning of this word?” or “What did this particular person do in history?” you can get on the internet and find out. No matter what little question comes across your mind, there is a web page out there with an answer or, likely, many answers.

Another way to learn is to take advantage of the capabilities of technology. Did you know you can make track recordings like they do in professional studios? Did you know you can learn to create short animated movies? Did you know that you can join social networks based on creating a character and moving around in a simulated world? Did you know that you can get free software to try these things out? Did you know there are lots of free music lessons and explanations of musical structure on the web? Did you know that some universities make their courses available and free on the web? Did you know that just the process of finding some of these resources will cause you to learn?

Not only will a lifelong approach to learning help your brain to stay healthy, but it also gives you a sense of control and well-being in your life. Don’t pay any attention to the voices that say “you can’t learn because you’re too old.” You can, indeed, and you will enjoy it.