From Curiosity to Confidence: How LIFE and AARP Are Transforming Learning for Older Adults

It started with a simple question: What if older adults had access to classes that were as relevant as they were inspiring?

Four semesters ago, Rowan College at Burlington County’s LIFE Program, short for Learning Is For Everyone, set out to answer that question. LIFE is designed for adults 50 and older who want to keep their minds active, explore new interests, and connect socially. When LIFE added the AARP presentations to their lineup, the impact was immediate and undeniable.

“I found AARP while searching for a ‘speakers bureau’ to bring new educational opportunities to The LIFE Program,” says Michele Hogan, LIFE Program Coordinator. “I was immediately impressed by the range and quality of the offerings. Our members responded so positively that I’ve continued to bring the programs back each semester, adjusting days and times so more people can attend.”

As the LIFE Program grew, so did the reach of these sessions. Over two years, more than 200 members attended 76 classes with an average of more than 20 attendees per class. The topics were so well received that many attended several presentations. And the topics? They hit home.

Fraud Prevention: Turning Fear into Power
Scams are everywhere, and older adults are often the prime targets. But these sessions are changing that. Instead of feeling vulnerable, participants leave with practical tools to protect themselves.

Joanne, a regular attendee, shared: “Good information and suggestions—how to not get caught feeling that just because you are older you can trust everyone.”

That’s empowerment in action. It’s knowledge that safeguards independence and peace of mind.

Technology Without Fear
For many, technology felt intimidating—especially artificial intelligence. But once participants stepped into classes like Introduction to AI and AI All Around, fear gave way to fascination.

Joanne explained: “I really enjoy these presentations as they provide the history of tech inventions and give a very good explanation on how to use the items and what you may not know about the item that you are using.”

And the ripple effect is real. Sarah, an AARP NJ Speakers Bureau volunteer, recalls: “An attendee of my Six Pillars of Brain Health presentation approached me sometime afterwards and told me she joined a local painting class because of what she learned. She wanted to thank me!”

That’s the power of learning. It sparks confidence and opens doors to new passions.

Whole-Life Learning
Beyond tech and fraud prevention, LIFE offers guidance on caregiving, Medicare, healthy living, and more. Joanne appreciated the clarity: “Good review of Medicare options and needs for those who are caring for themselves and others.”

Every topic is chosen with purpose: to make life easier, safer, and more fulfilling.

The Numbers Tell the Story
Many of the LIFE members joined multiple classes throughout the year resulting in a significant reach. A truely positive impact.

• 2024: 24 sessions reaching more than 500 attendees
• 2025: 52 sessions reaching more than 1,000 attendees

That’s growth you can feel and proof that when you meet people where they are, amazing things happen.

Why It Works
“As the LIFE Program grows, these sessions have reached even more members,” Michele says. “I also appreciate how AARP keeps its topics timely—especially in areas like fraud prevention, technology, and health. Having such a trusted, relevant resource has been incredibly valuable to our community.”

Fabiana LoPiccolo-Stewart, AARP NJ State & Community Engagement Analyst, adds: “The AARP NJ Speakers Bureau is a go-to resource for the 50-plus population in New Jersey. Working with LIFE allows us to deliver trusted, timely information that empowers people to choose how they live as they age.”

This collaboration isn’t just about classes. It’s about confidence. It’s about proving that lifelong learning truly is for everyone; at any age. And it’s about creating a community where curiosity thrives. It proves something powerful: learning doesn’t have to stop at any age. It just gets better when you have the right resources. The LIFE Program at Rowan College at Burlington County gives older adults a welcoming space to explore, connect, and grow. And with AARP New Jersey’s Speakers Bureau bringing trusted, timely information on technology, fraud prevention, health, and more, participants leave not only informed but inspired.

If you’re near Rowan College at Burlington and ready to discover new skills, protect what matters, and embrace the possibilities ahead, join us. Explore the LIFE Program at rcbc.edu/senior. If that's not covenient, learn how AARP NJ’s Speakers Bureau can be your organization's go-to resource for the 50-plus community at the AARP NJ Speakers Bureau website. Because curiosity doesn’t stop and neither should you.