Evanston is a dynamic city that provides seniors with countless opportunities to stay engaged, active, and connected. From learning opportunities at prestigious higher education institutions to a variety of community activities, there’s always something enriching to experience. Living at The Merion puts you right in the heart of it all, making it effortless for lifelong learners to take advantage of Evanston’s cultural, educational, and recreational offerings.
Whether it’s local community centers, libraries or Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI), Evanston offers numerous ways for older adults to stay involved, expand their knowledge, and forge meaningful connections. With The Merion as your home, all of these resources are just moments away. Let’s explore some of the top programs that make Evanston and our community ideal for lifelong learning, personal fulfillment and growth, and an enhanced quality of life.
1. Evanston Community Centers: A Hub for Connection and Activity
Evanston’s community centers play a vital role in fostering engagement for seniors. Centers like the Levy Senior Center provide a range of activities designed specifically for older adults. Whether it’s fitness classes like yoga and tai chi, art workshops or social events, these centers create a space where seniors can connect with others and participate in activities that promote physical and mental well-being.
At the Levy Senior Center, seniors can enjoy everything from gardening clubs to technology classes, empowering them to stay active and continue learning. Plus, regular events such as movie screenings, book clubs, and holiday celebrations help to nurture social bonds, ensuring seniors feel connected and supported in their communities. Residents of The Merion enjoy complimentary transportation to local areas of interest, so getting to the Levy Senior Center is always easy and convenient.
2. Evanston Public Library: A Gateway to Lifelong Learning
The Evanston Public Library system offers a wide variety of programs that cater to the interests and needs of seniors. Around the corner from The Merion, the library provides more than just access to books—it serves as a gateway to lifelong learning.
Seniors can take advantage of book clubs, author talks, and educational workshops on topics ranging from financial literacy to health and wellness. Many libraries also offer technology training sessions, where older adults can learn to navigate smartphones, computers, and social media, helping them stay connected with family and friends.
For those with mobility concerns, the Evanston Library system provides home delivery services, ensuring that seniors can continue to enjoy reading and educational materials from the comfort of their homes.
3. Osher Lifelong Learning Institute: Expanding Horizons
For seniors interested in continuing their education, Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI)
is a standout resource – right across the street from The Merion. Residents can participate in OLLI, taking advantage of non-credit courses in a broad range of subjects, from history and science to literature and current events. The institute encourages peer-led discussions, fostering an interactive learning environment where seniors can dive deep into their passions alongside others who share similar interests.
Seniors participating in OLLI courses enjoy the benefits of university-level learning without the pressure of exams or grades. It’s an opportunity to expand their horizons, explore new ideas, and build intellectual connections that enrich their retirement years. Whether through lecture-based courses or collaborative study groups, OLLI courses provide a vibrant community for engaged learning at any age.
4. A Vibrant Senior Living Community in the Heart of Everything Evanston
Evanston’s community programs offer seniors countless opportunities to stay inspired, curious, and social. Whether through fitness classes at the Levy Senior Center, book clubs at the Evanston Public Library, or continuing education courses, seniors can find the perfect fit for their interests and abilities. These local resources not only enrich the lives of older adults but also foster a strong sense of community. And The Merion places you in the heart of it all.
At The Merion, we keep residents connected to the vibrant opportunities that abound in Evanston. Contact us today at 847-250-0667 to learn more about how our location and educational opportunities can elevate your everyday living.