Growing older doesn’t mean stopping learning.
That’s the thinking behind La Laguna’s Aula de Cultura programme, which will continue throughout 2026 after the town hall renewed its partnership with ecca.edu.
The initiative is designed to help older residents stay active, connected and confident by offering practical workshops covering everything from digital skills to health and emotional wellbeing.
Practical Skills for Everyday Life
The programme will be delivered through the municipality’s senior centres and community associations, with sessions tailored specifically for older people.
Workshops will cover a wide range of useful topics, including:
- Digital skills for everyday tasks
- First aid
- Healthy lifestyle habits
- Equality and inclusion
- Citizens’ rights
- Personal development
The aim is to give participants practical knowledge they can use in daily life while encouraging them to remain engaged with their local community.
More Than Just Classroom Learning
The programme also recognises that staying socially active is just as important as learning new skills.
Alongside the educational workshops, participants will be able to take part in activities such as laughter therapy, music therapy and active leisure sessions, all designed to improve emotional wellbeing and create opportunities to meet new people.
Rather than formal lessons, the emphasis is on participation, conversation and building confidence.
Tackling Isolation Through Community
La Laguna’s Mayor, Luis Yeray Gutiérrez, said initiatives like this can play an important role in supporting emotional wellbeing and helping older people maintain their independence.
He also highlighted the growing problem of unwanted loneliness, explaining that programmes like Aula de Cultura encourage social interaction while helping participants keep both their minds and skills active.
Continuing a Successful Partnership
The renewed agreement builds on a collaboration between La Laguna Town Hall and ecca.edu that has been running for several years.
Representatives from both organisations attended the signing ceremony, reaffirming their commitment to lifelong learning and recognising the value of providing accessible education for older residents.
According to ecca.edu, continuing to learn later in life helps people maintain routines, strengthen social connections and improve their overall quality of life.
Helping Older Residents Stay Connected
One area receiving particular attention this year is digital literacy.
As more everyday services move online, being able to use smartphones, computers and digital platforms has become increasingly important for tasks such as communicating with family, accessing public services and managing appointments.
By combining practical education with social activities, the Aula de Cultura programme aims to help older residents remain active, independent and involved in community life throughout 2026.