By Therese Jordan

Traditionally, we thought of U3A as being all about learning: we called ourselves lifelong learners. But we are more than that. Joining U3A is good for both physical and mental health.

Members join us to experience something new, and invariably find themselves having fun and making new friends. By staying active, both physically and mentally, and being more socially engaged, people are known to live independently in their own homes for longer. Also, studies show that the onset of Alzheimer’s can thus be delayed. Our ‘Third Age’, that phase of active retirement, can be prolonged, thereby limiting the years we will spend in ‘Fourth Age’, which is the phase of being frail and dependent on others.

Membership is $50 per person per year and members may attend any U3A program. Most are held at the Thirroul Community Centre.

For further information visit our website at www.northernillawarra.u3anet.org.au or call Therese Jordan on 0413 218 957.