This project, driven by the NeurotechEU alliance (European University of Brain and Technology), has brought together students from the University Classrooms for Experience (AUNEX) at UMH and the Active Ageing Academic Certificate (AAAC) program at the University of Lille. The goal is to explore how knowledge about the brain can contribute to healthy aging, aligning with European Union priorities.
A key feature of the program is its participatory action-research methodology, where participants aged 55 and over collaborate in designing the training content. The aim is to develop a binational training model that can serve as a benchmark for future European initiatives in lifelong learning for older adults, and to compile experiences into a best practices guide.
Over 20 hours of training, participants have explored key scientific knowledge on brain aging, plasticity, lifelong learning capacity, age-related cognitive changes, the importance of sleep and physical activity for brain health, and the use of innovative tools like digital technologies and bio/neurofeedback techniques. The program also fostered reflection on how people age and learn in different cultural contexts.
The initiative addresses the growing demographic reality of an aging European population, which presents significant social and economic challenges. Access to lifelong learning is considered crucial for maintaining active citizenship after retirement. This project was funded by the ‘NeurotechEU Collaboration Funding Call’.
