There’s a common saying that states it’s difficult to teach new things to old individuals, implying that older beings might find it challenging to learn or adapt. While this might hold true for dogs, humans are more complex and adaptable than we might think. It is generally easier to acquire new skills at a younger age due to increased receptiveness and available time. However, regardless of whether you’re 40 or 80 years old, if you have the determination, you can undoubtedly learn something new.
Research indicates that the human brain, on average, is capable of absorbing and retaining fresh knowledge even in later stages of life. The primary obstacle to acquiring new information in older individuals is often a lack of confidence rather than any physical limitations. Perhaps you’ve attempted to grasp a new technology or social media platform to connect with younger generations or update your professional skills to stay competitive. The overwhelming nature of these tasks might cause some individuals, like my own parents, to dismiss the idea with an “I’m too old” sentiment.
However, age isn’t the issue; feeling overwhelmed is. By taking a gradual approach, there are numerous resources and courses designed to assist older learners. Just like children, adults have their own unique learning preferences. Once you identify your learning style, you can pursue any new skill you aspire to acquire.
