I have a sticker on my laptop that says, “Brave Enough to be Bad at Something New.” When asked about it, I admit that learning something new is harder for me now that I’m older, but I am committed to trying new activities. To that end, I’ve kept an eye out for offerings from my local recreation department and public library.
Recently, I’ve been exploring some activities that feel exciting—pickleball and hula-hooping—and that stimulate my memory, processing speed and other cognitive functions that I thought had retired. There’s a spirit-boosting impact in taking on something unfamiliar—and there’s an uncertainty about how my body will perform. I’m not shy about meeting new people, so that’s no deterrent for me. It’s often the social aspect that enhances the fun.
I learned that people taking the birdwatching class knew so much, they could tell you how old the bird was at a glance before I even focused my binoculars. I tried “forest bathing” with an outdoorsy friend and found it’s not for me, but I enjoyed my time with her. And while I may have failed miserably at both pickleball and hula-hooping, I’m thoroughly enjoying the cornhole league I joined. Let me say I am not good at the game, but I am getting marginally better, and the competitors couldn’t be nicer. We’re all there for a good time.
I know that every little stretch of my mind, even in small daily doses, keeps my brain from stagnating. Although my gray hairs may increase, my mind feels lighter, richer and more curious, proving that both the spirit and the brain thrive when they are continually learning.
Pepper Evans works as an independent-living consultant, helping older adults age in place. She is the empty-nest mother of two adult daughters and has extensive personal and professional experience as a caregiver. She has worked as a researcher and editor for authors and filmmakers. She also puts her time and resources to use in the nonprofit sector and serves on the Board of Education in Lawrence Township, NJ.
