The Health | september, 2019
22
Seniors
Our ukulele
classes are
very popular.
We are thinking
of introducing
24-drums and
the traditional
instrument
angklung.”
Never too old to learn
University of the Third Age proves that learning has no age limit
W
hen you hear of the word
retirement, what do you
think of? Sitting on the
beach, spending time
with your grandchildren,
endless golf maybe? How
about on top of doing those things, you can
try learning a new language, have a hand in
arts and craft, or learn how to swim or dance
as well?
The Health spoke to the University of the
Third Age or U3A, a program which ropes in
those who are part of the ‘third age’ – retired
individuals who no longer work full-time – to
continue what it calls lifelong learning. We
met up with the Vice President of U3A, Lily
Fu to find out all about the program.
What is U3A?
U3A Malaysia is a program under the ‘Lifelong
Learning for Older Malaysians’ project started
by Prof Datuk Dr Tengku Aizan Hamid, Direc-
tor of myAging (Malaysian Institute of Ageing
Research) University Putra Malaysia (UPM).
“It was on a trial basis, but it became really
popular and everyone saw the value from it.
It was originally funded by the United Nations
for five years. Once the five year funding was
up, we decided to stand alone. We got regis-
tered in 2012 and were on our own when the
government stepped in to help us.”
According to Lily, there are several U3A
models. The ones practised in Australia and
in the UK are more casual and informal. How-
ever the U3A practised in Malaysia is different
because there is a graduation ceremony at the
end of the course.
What courses are offered?
Our team was amazed to see the variety of
NEW AGE WISDOM: Lily Fu talks
about how there are still lots the elderly
can learn and do with their free time.
(Top) Members of
U3A all dressed up
in traditional outfits
having fun in the
gamelan course.
courses offered. Language classes range from
French, Korean and Japanese. For those
keen on art and craft, classes such as acryllic
painting, batik, calligraphy and sketching are
offered. Of course, not to mention exercise
and wellness courses such as swimming, yoga,
line dancing and Qigong. The requirement is
that you have to be 50 and above to join. The
fee ranges from RM80 to RM100. The U3A
located in UPM has 500 over members.
“We have workshops on computer skills,
the internet, email and smartphone. This is to
ensure they are not left behind in the digital
age. I’m constantly looking for instructors
who can teach anything from language to
skills. It would be even better if seniors are
able to turn their learnings into an income
generating skill such as baking or painting,”
expresses Lily.
According to Lily, the music courses at U3A
are a big hit among the members.
“Our ukulele classes are very popular. We
are thinking of introducing 24-drums and the
traditional instrument angklung.”
Interesting fact, the gamelan course
offered at U3A is well loved by the members.
In fact, the gamelan ensemble is often invited
to perform at opening ceremonies and the
audience is often impressed because they are
all seniors!
What does U3A have planned for the
future?
“We are looking to expand U3A to other
areas of Kuala Lumpur and Petaling Jaya so
more senior, can benefit from our courses,”
Lily expresses. — The Health
Proud members of
the U3A with their
paintings.
The benefits of lifelong learning for seniors
Learning is something we do throughout our
entire lives. We don’t simply stop learning once we’re
finished school – we learn new things every day.
Learning new things becomes especially important in the
senior years. It’s a great way to keep the mind and body
active and can play a big part in keeping seniors happy
and healthy. Whether it’s in a more formal classroom
setting or just learning something new from a friend,
it’s good to encourage your loved one to seek
knowledge.
So why is learning at a senior age important? class on how to speak a new language, you know that
everyone else there is interested in learning the same
thing as you.
Great way to meet new people Keeps your head sharp
When you decide to attend a class or lecture, you’ll find
yourself surrounded by people who share some common
interests with you. For example, if you decide to take a It’s important to keep the brain active as we get older.
Learning new skills or about new subjects is a great way
to keep the mind sharp. — The Health
You finally have the time
Ask any adult around you if they’ve got something they’ve
always wanted to learn about. Most people have a list of
things they would like to learn, but they simply don’t have
the time to do it. However, once you retire, you have the
gift of free time! It’s the perfect opportunity to take that
course you’ve always wanted to take or pick up.