The late comedian Lucille Ball said, “The secret to staying young is to live honestly, eat slowly, and lie about your age.”

Reasonable advice. Especially the lying part, since we can’t turn back the hands of time. I did read once that scientists actually stopped the aging process—in mice livers—by blocking something called misbehaving proteins. If there’s one thing I don’t wish on anyone, it’s misbehaving proteins.

Most of the focus these days seem to be on physical health. Nothing wrong with that, of course. But, it’s important to keep in mind that staying young involves developing a stronger mind by making conscious commitment lifelong learning—regardless of your age. Here’s how it helps:

• Improved self-confidence
• Better dexterity and hand-eye co-ordination
• New skills
• Sharper memory
• Improved social compatibility
• All-around physical, mental, and emotional health
• Fresher outlook on life

Clinical neuropsychologist Dr. Paul Nussbaum, who specializes in aging, points out that “…every time your heart beats, 25% of that blood goes right to the brain. But while exercise is critical, it may be education that is more important. In the 21st century, education and information may become for the brain what exercise is for the heart.”

Nancy Merz Nordstrom, who specializes in later-life learning, says lifelong learning feeds a “creative a curious, hungry mind.”

The Internet, of course, is an excellent resource for those who want to continue the learning process. Broad ranges of programs are available, limited only by your imagination. If you’re interested, start exploring the following links.  (Just be aware that a few of the links within them don’t work):

• Online Education Database
• Mission to Learn
• DiplomaGuide.com
• Road Scholar (a fun site to explore)

These should help you get started, and I hope you find that learning is not only healthful, it’s fun.

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