Independent Living
June 4, 2024

Discovering New Powers in Retirement: Ann’s Journey with GetSetUp

Discovering New Powers in Retirement: Ann’s Journey with GetSetUp
GetSetUp Blue Logo
Bg Square Inside Shape Decoration White 08 - Accountant X Webflow Template

Ann, an 80-year-old spirited retiree from Columbus, Ohio, has always believed in the power of learning. When she retired at 77, she sought new ways to stay active and engaged. Her journey with GetSetUp began serendipitously last December when illness kept her homebound. She found GetSetUp online through her Aetna Medicare Advantage plan and decided to try it.

"I was sick last December and couldn’t go anywhere for a month. I saw something online, gave it a try, and then gave it a big try,” Ann recalls.

GetSetUp’s wide array of classes has become a cornerstone of Ann's daily routine. From art to exercise, technology to cooking, she finds each session enriching. Ann's advice to new learners is simple yet helpful,

"If you go in and are unsure if you like the instructor, try the instructor two or three times as classes can differ.”

Ann’s first class was an art session with Deana, who quickly became her favorite instructor.

“I take all of Deana’s classes. Every day, we learn new skills, and from each class, I take away at least one or two things.”

Ann has also enjoyed taking cooking classes and learning about new products that make cooking even easier.

“Guide Ellen Jaffee taught a stir-fry class, and she has a grinder. I was intrigued by the grinder because it looked to make grinding easy. I plan to buy the grinder because I think it will make cooking more enjoyable and inspire me to do it!” 

Ann is open to exploring classes on all the topics just to learn. She particularly likes the travel classes. 

“Some speakers also make the travel classes interesting, and even if you aren’t going to the destination, you learn something more that you can talk about. Then, when you are somewhere, you can add this new information to conversations with others, or you are more knowledgeable to talk about a place friends or family are visiting.”  

Rekindling Old Passions

With a background in art, Ann had once abandoned her passion due to a negative experience. However, GetSetUp has revived her interest, inspiring her to transform her basement into a studio.

"Years ago, I took an art class and was told I was so bad, so I stopped, but Deana has revived my interest. I want to try it and keep learning more to see what happens."

Ann’s new projects are not just for personal satisfaction. She plans to participate in craft shows and give back to her community through art.

Beyond the classes, the sense of community at GetSetUp has been invaluable to Ann. She frequently engages in discussions after classes, particularly in the art and travel classes. She values the connections and insights she gains from this social aspect of the class.

“I tell a lot of people about GetSetUp classes. It’s great if you are home; you can do it right at your house without worrying about the weather.”

Ann's proactive sharing of her positive experiences helps spread awareness about GetSetUp’s benefits. She is particularly fond of the 20-minute classes, which fit seamlessly into her day without disruption.

Staying Safe and Savvy

Ann also appreciates the practical classes offered, such as those on avoiding scams.

“Older people are too trusting, and we need to be aware there is a lot out there. I got scammed online a few years ago, but luckily, I realized it in time.”

After quickly realizing she had been scammed, Ann ran to a neighbor for help. Unfortunately, she still lost $1,000 from this incident. Now, she doesn’t donate to organizations she doesn't know well, especially when it’s unclear what they do with the funding. She limits her donations to organizations focused on women and children. 

“You have to be careful. You can have a big heart and find out you are being taken advantage of,” she warns.

Ann continues to be very careful with anything unfamiliar on her computer. When she is confused, she turns off her computer until she can consult with someone else. Ann continues to learn and look for new resources to help protect her from scams and manage her finances effectively. 

“I think the classes on financial services and management are good not just for women; lots of men don’t know what they are doing, too,” she says. 

Ann’s enthusiasm for learning and growing remains undiminished. She continues to explore new classes each month, ensuring her days are filled with engaging and educational activities.

“I think GetSetUp is doing a great job. I look for something new each month, and I sign up immediately. These sessions are great bits of learning to add to my days.”

Through GetSetUp, Ann has found a platform that enriches her retirement and provides a space for personal growth and community connection. Her story is a testament to the impact of lifelong learning and the vibrant possibilities that GetSetUp offers to active agers everywhere.