Research from leading universities including a recent study conducted by the University of California - Irvine, as reported in Science Daily - "Learning Slows Physical Progression of Alzheimer's Disease" - has shown that keeping our brains stimulated through various learning opportunities will dramatically help retain mental alertness as we age.

For older adults and the 78 million Baby Boomers, the computer and the Internet are proving to be beneficial for lifelong learning.

Just recently, Mimi Witcher opened a virtual campus on the Internet - Computer School for Seniors. She encourages older adults to use their computers and the Internet to enhance lifelong learning opportunities. “The Internet has been called the greatest learning tool ever invented,” said Mimi. “It’s amazing what you can do with a computer, the Internet and your imagination.”

Mimi is a perfect example of the power of the computer.

In the late 90s, Mimi was seeking out a new career when her days as a stay-at-home mom had come to an end. A friend encouraged her to learn how to use the computer by enrolling in computer courses at Richland Community College in Dallas, Texas. She soon went from taking classes to teaching classes.

With much trepidation, Mimi entered the classroom and discovered she had found her new niche in life. “As it turns out, I loved teaching fellow seniors about the fun and rewards to be found on their computers,” she says.

On August 26, 2005, at the age of 61, Mimi was recognized by her students and peers when she received the Richland College Excellence in Teaching Award. That same year, Richland College was honored as the first community college in the United States to receive the Malcolm Baldridge National Quality Award, the nation's highest presidential honor for quality and organizational excellence. So Mimi became the teacher of the year at the college of the year.

"I love teaching," said Mimi, "and I love the enthusiasm and 'can-do' attitude shown by my senior students day after day." And when one of those students asked Mimi to put her lesson plans online because he could no longer physically attend her class, this empty-nester turned educator had just turned “entrepreneur”…she just didn’t know it yet.

The Computer School for Seniors campus began with various departments to complement the computer learning component, such as the Fitness Center, Campus Kitchen, Photo Restoration Shop and Photography Studio. In just the last few months, additional departments have been added, including The Financial Services Center, as well as a Travel Center and The Lifelong Learning Center, in response to students’ feedback.

“The campus has really grown and will continue to grow in order to meet the needs of our students,” says Mimi. “We immediately respond to student requests and questions.”

Mildred Krimlofski wanted information on how to create a table, so Mimi created a lesson plan to meet her needs. "I made the attached table after following your instructions in Microsoft Lesson Plan #5,” said Mildred. I am so proud of it. I carry a copy in my wallet and present it at the doctor’s or dentist’s office when they ask what drugs I am taking. It is so easy for them to check the drugs and update the data; they love it. Thank you so much."

"At 82, I have become 15% computer geek,” said Paul Yowell. I write letters so much better and I enjoy doing it. I am not afraid of that 17" monitor any more."

“Whenever possible I encourage seniors to participate in a classroom learning experience like what is offered at Richland,” said Mimi. If that is not possibe or to supplement that, look to the Internet for lifelong learning opportunities available 24/7, 365 days a year.”

You can learn more about Computer School for Seniors including the new Lifelong Learning Center and read the full UC-Irvine Research Report by taking a virtual tour of the Internet campus at www.cs4seniors.com.