Third Age universities open new year as seniors seek connection
Thursday 1st October 2026 on 22:00 in
Lithuania
Third Age universities have begun a new academic year in cities across Lithuania as the country marks the International Day of Older Persons, with celebrations highlighting both opportunities for social contact and the need for support services, LRT reports.
The Third Age University in Panevėžys has enrolled a record number of students. Ten years ago, just 35 seniors attended its classes; this year, nearly 1,000 have signed up.
“The city is ageing. Another thing is that seniors want to leave their homes and not stay in,” said rector Zita Kazlauskienė. She added that word-of-mouth recommendations have helped attract students.
Students attend not for grades or diplomas, but for company, activities and new experiences. Panevėžys resident Elena Mikeniova said she enjoys line dancing and has also signed up to learn Latvian. Another student, Albinas Ambroževičius, said he enjoys excursions, hiking and walking trails.
In Pakruojis, an annual celebration marks the start of the Third Age University’s academic year. The town square is also turned into an outdoor restaurant serving food. Seniors said events like this help them escape loneliness, which can be especially difficult for people with chronic illnesses or who are unable to leave home.
Pakruojis district Social Welfare Department head Daiva Rutkevičienė said some pensioners struggle to cover their living costs and that many people live alone. She said support may need to include not only social workers but also psychologists and people who can help motivate them.
About a quarter of residents in the regions are seniors, and local authorities are devoting a growing share of their budgets to reducing social exclusion and improving living conditions. Services include transport, adapted housing and day centres. Pakruojis district plans to build a 40-place care home in the town within two to three years, Mayor Saulius Margis said.
The Food Bank says seniors are increasingly seeking assistance, particularly those who live alone. Older people account for a third of its aid recipients.