There are many reasons why adults decide to return to education later in life. For some, it may be to gain the qualifications they need for a particular job or career change. For others, it may simply be a desire to learn something new or re-engage with learning after a long break. Whatever the reason, adult education can offer many benefits.
Some of the most important benefits of adult education include:
1. Improved employment prospects
With competition for jobs becoming increasingly fierce, having the right qualifications can make a big difference when it comes to securing employment. By returning to education as an adult, you can improve your employability by gaining new skills and qualifications.
2. Higher earnings
Adults with higher levels of education tend to earn more than those with lower levels of education. So, if you’re looking to boost your earnings potential, adult education can be a great way to do it.
3. Greater job satisfaction
Adults who have the opportunity to learn new things and develop their skills often find that they experience greater job satisfaction. This can lead to improved motivation and productivity at work, as well as a reduced chance of experiencing burnout.
4. Improved mental health
Studies have shown that adults who engage in lifelong learning experiences tend to enjoy better mental health than those who don’t. This is likely due to the fact that learning new things can help to keep the mind active and engaged, which can help to ward off conditions such as dementia.
5. Enhanced social life
Adult education classes provide a great opportunity to meet new people and make friends. This can be particularly beneficial for adults who are retired or who work from home. Socialising with others can help to stave off loneliness and isolation, and can also lead to increased feelings of happiness and wellbeing.
6. Improved physical health
Adults who engage in lifelong learning activities tend to enjoy better physical health than those who don’t. This is likely due to the fact that many adult education classes involve some form of physical activity, such as dance or art classes. Physical activity has been shown to have numerous health benefits, including reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke, and improving mental health.
7. Greater life satisfaction
Adults who participate in lifelong learning activities often report higher levels of life satisfaction than those who don’t. This is likely due to the fact that learning new things can help to give a sense of purpose and meaning in life, which can lead to increased feelings of happiness and wellbeing.
8. Increased chances of success in retirement
Many adults find that they need to continue working well into their retirement years in order to make ends meet. However, returning to education as an adult can help to increase your chances of success in retirement by giving you the skills and knowledge you need to start your own business or find alternative sources of income.
9. Improved cognitive function
Adults who engage in lifelong learning activities often enjoy better cognitive function than those who don’t. This is likely due to the fact that learning new things helps to keep the mind active and engaged, which can help to prevent age-related decline in cognitive function.
10. A sense of achievement
Finally, adult education can provide a great sense of achievement. Learning new things can help you to feel proud of your accomplishments and can give you a renewed sense of self-confidence.
