For many people the typical image of a language travel student is someone in their teens or maybe early twenty’s. While this age group makes up the largest proportion of language students around the world, they are not the only ones studying abroad! You may be surprised at just how many language programs for seniors exist!
Simple answer: YES! Language programs for seniors really do exist, and study abroad by seniors is becoming more and more popular too! The typical image of a language travel student may be someone in their youth, but in actual fact people of all ages are taking to studying in language schools abroad, and the schools are tapping into these markets.
In certain respects a language program for seniors won’t differ at all to a standard program. Exact programs will vary somewhat with the individual language schools, though generally the curriculum should be the same across the different language levels offered. So why study a language program for seniors then? Well, there may not be too many differences in terms of what you study, but there will be differences in how you study.
The major difference is that seniors have different needs and requirements to younger students. Many younger students are very happy to study abroad and stay with a host family, or in dormitory accommodation, though this wouldn’t necessarily suit a senior. Some seniors may be more than happy staying with a host family, whereas others would no doubt prefer to find their own accommodation, perhaps in a hotel.
Language programs for seniors may not be quite as intensive as standard ones, involving fewer lessons per week, or perhaps shorter lessons, and some of the vocabulary learnt may be a little different too as it could be geared more towards the senior’s age range.
Senior’s who attend a language course can benefit in many ways from the experience. If studying abroad it’s an excellent opportunity for them to see parts of a country they may never have visited before. They have the opportunity to witness the culture and everyday lives of the people who live there, rather than just experience it as a tourist, and to have the chance to go on guided tours to interesting places and sights.
Attending a language program for seniors doesn’t have to be done abroad though, and could be in your home town. Even then, there are many benefits – the social side is also a big advantage as you get to meet many new people; it’s usually a very fun experience; and you can put your new found language skills to good use next time you go on holiday!