Introducing peer-led sessions enhances learning and discovery in varied ways.
Your residents have numerous talents and interests and are often eager to share their knowledge. Expertise in a specific area is not necessary to lead a class. A resident might excel at managing a roundtable discussion, introducing and summarizing a movie, or leading a book group.
Lifelong learning classes don’t require a certified expert—engaging facilitators can spark curiosity, share common knowledge, and guide meaningful discussions that introduce new concepts and ideas in an accessible, relatable way for all participants.
Using the ALLE Learning™ materials enables resident-led sessions to promote lifelong learning, health, wellness, and happiness. Peer-led classes by residents (or family members) in senior living communities provide valuable benefits, making them an excellent choice for fostering engagement, learning, and social connections among residents.
A class led by a peer can be more relatable and conversational. Participants may feel more comfortable asking questions, sharing ideas, and engaging in discussions. Peer-led classes often emphasize shared experiences and practical knowledge over formal theory, fostering a more relaxed and inclusive learning environment.
Having a peer lead the session creates a comfortable atmosphere where participants feel understood and can relate to the presenter’s experiences. This connection encourages deeper discussions and fosters more active participation.
Learning in a peer-led environment helps keep the mind sharp by offering participants different perspectives on various topics. Diverse residents bring unique backgrounds and experiences, resulting in a wealth of topics, ideas, and viewpoints. This can make the sessions feel fresh, relevant, and tailored to the group’s interests.
Ensure all participants feel they can contribute, whether leading or just attending. Inclusive participation helps everyone feel valued.
Rotate leaders regularly to allow more individuals to lead and share their expertise and knowledge, fostering a sense of shared community responsibility.
Class Ideas for Peer-Led Programs
Every ALLE Learning™ class supports the concept of a peer-led session. Keep it easy—it can involve a small group discussion on a single topic (tell us some hard-won wisdom you have learned in your lifetime), introduce a movie or film, and conclude the session with a discussion.
Facilitate an ALLE Learning Class
A class led by a peer can feel relatable, conversational, and less intimidating than one taught by an “expert.” Participants may feel more comfortable asking questions, sharing ideas, and engaging in discussion. Peer-led classes often focus on shared experiences and practical knowledge rather than formal theory, creating a more relaxed and inclusive learning environment.
Round Table Discussions
A group of residents gathers to discuss a specific topic. The facilitator leads the discussion and sets the ground rules (e.g., "do not interrupt," "we have limited time," "let everyone speak," etc.).
Schedule Visits to a Museum & Theater
Coordinate the subject, date/time, and transportation.
ZOOM Discussion
Coordinate a session with a local museum, author, or artist.
Life Stories and Lessons
Residents take turns sharing meaningful stories from their lives. This can be as informal as storytelling or include themes like “adventures,” “hard-won wisdom,” or “funniest moments.”
Article Discussions
Pick articles on various themes, from mysteries and classics to current events. Provide each participant with a copy of the article—read it together as a group. The facilitator leads discussions, focusing on concepts and analyses, and connecting the article to everyday life experiences.
Skills and Hobbies Exchange
Residents with skills in specific areas (e.g., knitting, woodworking, birdwatching) can teach mini-workshops. Participants get the opportunity to try new things in a low-pressure environment.
Mindfulness and Wellness Practices
Mindfulness, meditation, and simple movement exercises led by peers (or health and wellness staff) can be more accessible and enjoyable.
Culture and Travel Sharing
Residents can share their travels or heritage, bringing in photos, souvenirs, or cultural artifacts.
Health and Lifestyle Discussions
Peer-led discussions on brain health, sleep, exercise, and diet are often effective. For example, in a class on brain health, participants could discuss what they find most effective for mental sharpness or share insights from recent readings.
Documentary and Discussion Nights
Watching a documentary together and discussing it afterward can be stimulating and educational. Topics could range from nature and history to inspirational biographies.
Music and Art Appreciation
Sessions on music history, exploring visual art techniques, or even sharing favorite songs from different decades can be engaging and allow for personal connection.
Newspaper Headlines
Invite participants to bring a headline for discussion. This is super effective because many residents have newspapers from their home city or state, which can be very entertaining!
Keep It Light and Fun
While learning is important, focusing on enjoyment and connection is crucial, especially in senior living communities. Assist the presenter with an interesting opening.
Be Flexible
Adapt the format as needed based on what works best. Some groups may prefer presentations, while others enjoy discussions or hands-on activities. Entertainment, while others enjoy discussions or hands-on activities.