The world still needs mature people who know things, and life doesn't end at 65. This is the 21st century and expected lifespan is pushing near the 80's on average. Furthermore, as a part of the information age, no one can know enough therefore knowledge is important and it can take a lifetime to learn. The retirement years are an opportunity to become an even greater expert than in the working years in addition to being a potentially important part of mental health. The following paragraphs illustrate the benefits of returning to 'school' in retirement:

Wisdom of the Older Generation:

When all the baby boomers retire that leaves generation x and generation Y to take the helm. While these generations are probably more capable and savvy in regard to the latest technology and their own generational dynamics the wisdom and knowledge of the baby boomers is still needed. Granted, such wisdom can be taught by a mature student in a classroom, but keeping up with education is a possible avenue for sprucing up consulting credentials and other post-retirement opportunities.

Tax Deductibility:

In recent tax years, education tuition has been a tax reducer in a number of ways. For example, on the Lifetime Learning Credit section of Internal Revenue Service form 8863, between 20-40% of education expenses up to $10,000 can be used as a credit to taxable income. This credit can pose a significant reduction to taxable income and possible taxes. Other education deductions include tuition interest expense and the 'Hope credit' also on IRS form 8863. There are restrictions on the number of education credits a tax filer can use i.e. only one or the other of the credits on form 8883 can be used at a time.

Brain Exercise:

According to www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov, a leading online medical authority "Physicians now commonly advise older adults to engage in mentally stimulating activity as a way of reducing their risk of dementia." Moreover, it is now medically established, certain brain functions such as short-term memory can decline with age. Not only does school allow one to learn more and potentially do more, it is exercise for the brain. Just like physical body, the brain gets lazy and loses strength with age. School could be a consideration for one's retirement mental health regimen.

Employment Training/On the Job Education:

For those who don't want to pay for school, there may be on the job education programs for employed retirees. While such training wouldn't qualify for

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