More than a third of over-50s have learned a new skill after milestone birthday

They say you can’t teach an old dog new tricks – but more than a third of adults have picked up different skills since turning 50, according to research. A poll of 2,000 adults, aged 50 and over, found 36 percent have successfully learnt to do something completely new – including how to play the guitar, dance, sing, or paint.

Other notable new talents include Nordic walking, using Excel, and creating an Instagram reel.

And learning to play golf, making a video call, and successfully attempting home repairs, all featured in the top five.

Nearly four in ten (36 percent) admitted there had been things they’d always wanted to master – but for a host of reasons they had never managed to, until now.

And almost a third (31 percent) didn’t pursue their ambitions because of their busy work schedule, while 28 percent felt they had a lack of confidence to learn something new.

Simon Thompson, managing director of Warner Hotels, which commissioned the survey, said: “We’ve always known those over the age of 50 have a zest for life, and love learning new skills.

“It’s encouraging to see recent research has confirmed this, and knowing they aren’t afraid to get stuck in enjoying a new activity while having fun at the same time.

“Our holidays see people trying out exciting activities like golf, archery, and laser-clay shooting, or even sunset yoga and meditation.”

Reasons for wanting to learn a new skill after turning 50 include feeling better mentally and physically, keeping motivated, and wanting to enjoy life to the fullest.

And 42 percent live by the mantra “it’s never too late to learn something new”.

On average, it takes four months for over-50s to master their new skill – with 48 percent claiming to be confident that they will gain one they haven’t yet acquired.

More than half (54 percent) won’t let age get in their way of achieving something new – with the average adult over 50 willing to pay £45 each month to hone a desired skill.

Two-thirds of those polled (65 percent) said acquiring new skills in life is important – and of these, 63 percent said it is because it gives you something to aim for, while 56 percent believe it’s all about having fun.

And four in ten think it’s key to show everyone that over-50s can still do anything they want.

The study, conducted via OnePoll.com, found 41 percent are likely to learn more skills the older they become – and consider six to be the perfect number of accomplishments to complete during their lifetime.

Simon Thompson added: “A holiday is not only a place to relax, but an opportunity to try something out of the ordinary, often for the first time.

“From cooking classes to Nordic walking, we believe everybody deserves to be able to learn something new.

“That’s why we’re offering the chance to learn a new skill, by giving away a free three-night golf break.”

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