Thriving in retirement: a journey of continuous learning and giving back

With careful financial planning, retirement presents an exciting chapter filled with newfound freedom and limitless opportunities. Everyone has different dreams and priorities, from nice cars and overseas travel to spending more time at home with family and friends.

For some, the very definition of thriving in retirement lies in continuous learning and service to others.

At First Financial, we dedicate ourselves to helping our clients achieve their ideal retirement lifestyle. They each have such distinct stories. One inspiring example is Val Little, who has a profound enthusiasm for learning and making a positive impact through giving back.

Around 16 years ago, Val and her husband, John, moved to Boroondara to enjoy their retirement together. During a day of volunteering, Val had the opportunity to meet someone from the local U3A branch and became interested in their courses and activities. Val decided to give recorder classes a try, while John decided to learn Mandarin.

U3A, or University of the Third Age, follows a structured academic calendar with four terms, like school. Each term, participants can select different programs or continue in the same class for the full year. Val found the flexibility and wide variety of learning opportunities for a minimal yearly fee impressive. She thought it was remarkable that the instructors and tutors, all former professionals, including teachers, doctors, lawyers and more, were volunteering their time and expertise.

While Val initially enjoyed learning the recorder, she broadened her course selection to encompass her love of the arts, philosophy and psychology. John excelled in Mandarin and derived great joy from his studies until his passing from motor neurone disease (MND) a couple of years ago.

Now in her 80s, Val continues to dedicate her time to support causes that hold a special place in her heart, such as MND Australia. Volunteering has always been a passion, but now there is an added sense of purpose in helping those who are enduring this debilitating illness, which she is sadly so familiar with. Now, her work is in honour of John.

Motor neurone disease describes an entire group of diseases that affects nerve cells called ‘motor neurones’. Currently, MND affects an estimated 2,000 Australians, with an additional two people receiving a new diagnosis each day.

This significant number highlights the important work of volunteers like Val. By actively raising awareness and funds for treatment and research, individuals and families impacted by the disease receive invaluable support and assistance.

“I’m learning lots of things that I didn’t know before. I’m finding a lot of the lecturers are retired university lecturers, so they know what they’re talking about. They know their subjects. It’s so interesting.”

Val derives great joy from exploring new subjects and expanding upon lifelong interests. During her earlier years, she actively participated in a local drama club, performing in a few shows per year. In retirement, Val engages in studies that connect her to past passions, like her play reading group.

“You go to classes you’re interested in. I’m not interested in technology or computers but I am interested in arts, philosophy and psychology.”

While Val’s niche was in the creative space, John preferred technology and computers. When they both started attending U3A, Val recalls finding the perfect balance between pursuing their individual interests and also enjoying some classes together.

Evidently, Val is not the only one seeking personal growth and enrichment during her senior years. The local U3A has been steadily growing in size each year, and the local council even constructed a dedicated facility for them, complete with an oval and tennis courts. When Val initially joined, there was only one recorder class available, but now they offer a total of four classes.

Comprising entirely of volunteers, the U3A has evolved into a vibrant community of seniors who share common values and a deep dedication to fostering lifelong learning. Val feels at home and would encourage all seniors to learn more about the courses and classes on offer and to sign up.

Throughout COVID lockdowns, classes switched to Zoom, and now in a post-pandemic world, all classes have a remote option available. This means that seniors like Val’s 101-year-old friend, who is unable to attend in person, can still learn and engage from the comfort of home.

“Learning makes you to stay forever young. Commit yourself to lifelong learning.”
― Lailah Gifty Akita

Val is proof that it is never too late to learn. It’s never too late to pick up a new interest or hobby. And it’s never too late to give back to the community and causes that are close to your heart.

Whether your retirement dream is to see the world, work hard to make it a better place, or both, at First Financial we are committed to assisting you in realising those goals.

For expert superannuation, financial and retirement planning advice, contact our team today.

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