Every day presents us with the chance to expand our knowledge. But if you are still, for whatever reason, worried that you are too old to learn something new, think about Priscilla Sitienei, a midwife from Ndalat in Kenya.

Not having the opportunity to attend school as a kid, she grew up without learning to read or write. But as she got older, she wanted to share her experiences and knowledge with her family. So, at 90 years old, she joined a local school, along with six of her great-great-grandchildren.

Engaging in activities that challenge our mind is the key to reducing the risk of cognitive decline. Studies reveal that adopting new skills can enhance mental abilities in older adults. Just like our muscles, the mind also requires daily exercise to stay healthy. By regularly challenging and stimulating the brain, people can improve their reasoning abilities, problem-solving skills, and overall quality of life.

Taking up hobbies that involve curiosity also reduces stress and anxiety. For instance, reading allows us to unwind by letting us take a break from the hustle and bustle of work, relationships, and daily responsibilities. In fact, it triggers the release of feel-good neurotransmitters, such as dopamine. These neurochemicals promote feelings of pleasure and relaxation.

Exploring intriguing facts improves your social abilities. Being well-informed about various topics boosts confidence, allowing you to join discussions. For instance, you are at a party and the conversation turns to a topic about space. Because you recently read something interesting about galaxies, you are able to offer valuable input.

Learning doesn't just happen in school; it's a lifelong journey that brings various benefits. But to become a lifelong learner, one must develop healthy daily habits. To begin with, nurturing a growth mindset is important. It might take time but your skills and intelligence can be developed through continuous effort and dedication. You just need to step out of your comfort zone and take on new challenges.

Let’s face it, we often get busy with work, family, and social commitments, leaving little room for learning. Hence, it’s important to have good time management skills. Developing a schedule and sticking to it each day can increase your productivity. Don’t be shy to set an alarm clock to achieve your goals for the day.

Reflecting on activities that excite you is a great way to start learning. You can find like-minded people who share your interests and enjoy the activities with them. Not only does this nurture your passion, but it’s also a great way to learn from others. For instance, you can join this FB group to connect with curious minds.

The more you engage with new information, the richer your knowledge of the world becomes. So, keep your mind open, and feed your curiosity with these interesting facts.