WANT to learn something new? Here’s your chance. The National Silver Academy (NSA), a network of course providers, offers more than 1,000 subsidised courses for seniors. And the best part, no exams! Whether you want to learn how to use your smartphone to WhatsApp your grandchildren or how to be a better caregiver, there’s definitely something for everyone. Here are five exciting NSA short courses that we picked to help you kick-start your learning journey.
Photo credit: Council for Third Age (C3A)
1. For the smartphone newbie
Course: Learn to use an Android phone effectively
Feeling overwhelmed by the plethora of smartphone applications? Don’t worry, you are not alone. This course will help you to overcome your fear, step-by-step. With some practice, you’ll easily pick up the tricks to navigate through your phone’s functions by performing simple touch gestures like swiping, pinching and tapping on the screen. More importantly, you’ll learn how to make free local and international calls to your loved ones using WhatsApp. You’ll also find out how to install and uninstall apps, use various digital payment apps and get nifty tips to take photos and videos!
Dates: 10
May, 23 Aug, 15 Nov 2019
Venue: Dover, Singapore Polytechnic
For more information, visit: http://bit.ly/learnandroidphone
2. For the foodie
Course: Healthy diet for healthy ageing
We all know eating is a national pastime. But eating right, especially when you are older, is important. The right diet can help prevent or reduce risks of diseases such as diabetes, heart diseases and osteoporosis. So, start taking control of your diet by learning about your body’s nutritional needs and learn how you can plan healthy and delicious meals.
Dates: 14 and 16 May 2019
(The upcoming run in May will be conducted in Mandarin.)
Venue: Woodlands,
Republic Polytechnic
For more information, visit: https://www.bit.ly/healthydiet_healthyageing
3. For the data geek
Course: Excel – Data analysis and collection
Do you have a knack for numbers and data? Learn the basics of data analysis using Excel. Through this course, you will learn how to use Excel to analyse data and develop programmes to collect data automatically – skills that will impress your bosses!
Course start date: 6 April 2019
Venue: Choa Chu Kang, Institute of Technical Education (ITE) College West
For more information, visit: http://bit.ly/excel_data
4. For the caregiver
Course: Care of the elderly
Are you a caregiver? Do you have elderly parents or loved ones whom you may need to take care of someday? This one-day training programme will help you learn skills such as bed bathing, safe lifting and tube feeding. You will also learn how to communicate with the elderly and ensure you maintain your emotional and physical well-being as a caregiver.
Course start date: 14 May 2019
Venue: Ang Mo Kio Polyclinic
For more information, visit: http://bit.ly/careoftheelderly
5. For the soon-to-be retiree
Course: Rethink 50 – Be active and relevant
Planning for retirement can be a daunting process. If you’re not sure where to begin, this course is the one for you. You will find out how to identify your own strengths, interests and purpose in life as well as prepare yourself for work-life transition. It will also empower you to stay active and relevant by doing meaningful work, and build relationships with people around you.
Course start dates: 28 March, 11 April, 28 May and 18 June 2019
Venue: Bishan, Centre For Seniors
For more information, visit: http://bit.ly/rethink50
Besides these courses, there are many more available at the NSA. Head down to the NSA Roadshow on 29 and 30 March at Ang Mo Kio Central Stage or visit https://www.nsa.org.sg to find out more. See you in class!
Article published on 21/03/19