#United States #Older Adults #Evanston #Mather #virtual programs

Transforming the Aging Experience with Virtual Learning

In 2025, a significant shift occurred in how older adults engaged with their interests and the world around them. Mather, a not-for-profit organization based in Evanston, Illinois, opened doors to creativity and connection for over 46,000 individuals aged 60 and above, offering free virtual programs that ranged from painting with pets to yoga and screenwriting. This initiative resulted in an impressive total of 53,524 virtual program hours, aimed at fostering a sense of community and encouraging lifelong learning among seniors.

Dr. Cate O'Brien, Mather's chief transformation officer, emphasized the profound impact of continuing education on the well-being of older adults. She noted, "Research shows that older adults who actively engage in lifelong learning exhibit a more optimistic outlook, leading to improved physical and mental health." These programs were designed to be accessible, allowing seniors to engage in fulfilling experiences from the comfort of their homes.

Mather's commitment to wellness was reinforced by the research conducted by its Mather Institute, which provided insight into what older adults truly need to thrive. This included exploring new hobbies such as Chinese calligraphy, tea history, and the art of map-making. Each program was seamlessly integrated to promote wellness, creativity, and connections with peers.

In total, Mather delivered 130,697 program hours through a diverse array of 189 unique offerings. While these virtual classes made a significant impact, Mather maintained an active presence through in-person activities across Chicagoland, especially targeting the South and West sides of Chicago, engaging seniors in fitness, nutrition, and cultural experiences.

Mather's 2025 community impact report highlights the strides made in enhancing overall well-being among older adults, encompassing independence, achievement, and camaraderie. This community outreach initiative included:

• - 25 Locations: Hosting activities across the Chicagoland area that facilitated socialization among older adults through fitness classes, walking clubs, and art initiatives.
• - Art and Garden Kits: Provision of 21,923 Grow-It-Together hydroponic garden and Do-It-Together art kits, fostering opportunities to learn gardening techniques and share artistic expressions with others in their community.
• - Healthy Food Access: Mather distributed over 16,000 household packages through its Market Baskets and Cook & Connect programs, ensuring access to fresh produce and nutritious recipes for seniors.
• - Pet Connection: The organization also delivered more than 1,550 PAW packs with pet food and goodies, encouraging the emotional support and companionship that pets provide.

Collaborating with over 70 organizations in the area, Mather successfully developed forward-thinking programs in partnership with institutions such as the National Museum of Mexican Art, The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center, and various Chicago Public Libraries. Each collaboration aimed to craft experiences for seniors that not only educate them but also ignite a sense of belonging and connection.

Mather, established in 1941 by humanitarian Alonzo Mather, has consistently driven innovative approaches to rethinking society's views on aging. By focusing on wellness, creative expression, and educational pursuits, Mather's mission revolves around creating meaningful opportunities for senior citizens. Its flagship facilities include Mather Place in Wilmette, The Mather in both Evanston and Tysons, and Splendido in Tucson, Arizona.

The organization invites anyone interested in partnering to build new programs or to learn more about free virtual offerings to visit Mather.com/Programs. With a focus on empowering older adults and breaking the stigma around aging, Mather embodies a progressive approach to healthy, fulfilling living as we age.

Ultimately, Mather seeks to change how society interprets the process of aging, aiming for a future where older individuals are seen as vibrant contributors to their communities, forging new connections and experiences well into their later years.