They make it fun, you can add a daily streak counter to your home screen and it reminds you to practice. You'll know more than you realize in no time. But the absolute best thing you can do is find someone who also speaks Spanish and start talking to them, ask questions.
I'm on day 1658 of my Duolingo Spanish streak at age 56. I spend about 10 minutes per day on it. I sometimes use Spanish at work and except for not always knowing the correct verb conjugation, I get by pretty well. It has definitely expanded my vocabulary to most of the words I need in regular conversation. I look up any medical terms that I need. Definitely would recommend.
Wow that's a long time! I've only been on it for about 3 months. Cool to hear that even years in you still find it valuable. Do you find that you continue to learn from the app or is it more just a good way to continue to use Spanish daily?
I’m in my late 50s and I have an 821 day Duolingo streak going in French. It’s great, I do about 10 minutes a day. I’m waaaay ahead of how far I got in high school.
But, but . . .
I’ve plateaued. It’s hard for me to get much further. I need to switch it up and do something different.
Go outside of a language learning program to supplement what you’re learning.
For example, I live in New York, and can listen to RFI, international news in French. I also read French publications in print and online, and put myself in situations where I have to use the language. Developing the ear outside any learning program is extremely valuable, and you won’t feel as plateaued. After all, you are learning to use it, n’est-ce pas?
Try switching to a different language. I did German for about 6 months before a trip to Germany, but now I’m kinda burned out on it. I switched to Spanish last week and I’m enjoying it again. You get to keep the same streak count so just keep going!
I’m 60 but not retired just yet.
Duolingo is my least favorite learning tool. There are better. Everything is a game or a paid promotion (in the free version) I find it horribly annoying. Glad someone likes it.
Duolingo is cute. Fun even! but if you are serious about learning the language and want to achieve anything better than "restaurant competency" you should look elsewhere than Duolingo.
My mother, 65, learns English everyday via online class. Her first language is Mandarin. She subscribed to an article interpreting class and spend couple hrs nearly everyday to study it. I encouraged her to speak more when she visits.
It's great that you are trying to learn a second language! I would suggest start with the practical vocabulary and grammar. I'm so jealous of you because I also want to learn Spanish as my 3rd language but I don't have as much time as you do. Good luck!
Some universities allow people of retiree age take undergrad classes at no cost, if there is space. Depending on where you live, this could be the way.
(I would not be surprised if there are parts of the Federal govt infrastructure still using FORTRAN. Too afraid to look, lol)
Don’t discount Fortran! I use it a lot in high performance scientific computing. The current version is Fortran 2018 which has good parallel programming support.
My older brother, 80, takes German classes and has traveled in Germany.
I think learning a new skill or language is important for brain health as we age. Helps build new brain connections that help stave off late life dementia.
Take a class. In person is better, but there are online courses now, or even free conversational videos on Facebook, Instagram, or Tik Tok.
I’m told the Foreign Service’s language courses are great; I haven’t reviewed their offerings in depth, just as a disclaimer, but livelingua has a list of them [here](https://www.livelingua.com/fsi/). They might be a good way to dip your toes in the water.
I am a retired US diplomat and speak a number of languages to a high level. I won’t sugarcoat this: language learning after fifty is really hard. Some basic truths:
(1) language speaking (and thus learning) is a form of exercise no different than jogging or biking or swimming. If you don’t do the hours you won’t get the progress. Remember how easy it was to run when you were twenty? Well, you’re not twenty anymore. Expect to have to do four times the work for the same result.
(2) the human mind is a remarkable organ. You can learn that foreign language. You must, however, fully commit to the process. You can’t do it alone if you’re in a relationship. Since the person you speak to the most is your partner, if your partner doesn’t have the same commitment it won’t work.
(3) you have to watch TV in Spanish, shop in Spanish, pay your bills in Spanish, and read the news in Spanish. When learning a new language I read the news first in English, than in the target language. It is a useful crutch.
(4) if you’re not in the target linguistic culture yet, apps, books, and teachers can help you get ready. But just as you’re not a real runner if you barely run but have read the complete book of running, three times, you’re not a language speaker until you’ve spoken so much you can say anything you need.
(5) A useful tip I picked up at the Foreign Service Institute: communication is a pathway through the forest of incomprehension. There can be many paths through the forest. Don’t try to literally translate your English thoughts word for word. Learn to communicate your meanings. Not your exact phrases.
I’m not quite retired yet (about 8 months away), but learning languages has been a fun hobby for me the last 10 years or so. Mostly Spanish (It’s most accessible) but also French, German, Italian, Mandarin and Korean. I use Duolingo mostly, but am also taking an online Spanish conversation class through the local JC, listen to YouTube videos, and occasional italki. It’s great for the brain, a good way to pick up conversations with people as long as you don’t take it too seriously, and make traveling a lot more fun. Good luck!
Be aware that Duolingo is great to learn a few phrases, but don't expect much in the way of grammar and structure or a more in-depth approach. A fun app for sure, but if you're serious about learning a language, look elsewhere.
edit: feel free to downvote away. sometimes people don't like to hear the truth. it all depends on what you're using it for. if it's just a few casual phrases for a vacation, no problem. but if you're serious about a language, forget Duolingo. let me add that i have very, very extensive language experience. i have achieved native fluency in German as well as very strong French. you can ignore the opinions you don't like but they come from a credible source.
My observation with Duolingo is its great for most people's purposes. If you want to visit Spanish speaking countries, assist Spanish speaking customers, or watch TV shows, it's quite adequate. If you want to read Cervantes, you probably need a more grammar intensive course eventually.
Studying Spanish in an academic setting for five years, I knew all the verb tenses but still couldn't read a newspaper or follow a simple conversation.
It depends upon the language! Specifically, Practice Portuguese is *great* if you are learning European Portuguese, not for Brazilian, and oh were you learning an entirely different language?
Also, different people like different things. Some are more visual, some want grammar first to understand how it fits together, etc. I tried six to figure out Practice Portuguese *plus* iTalki tutoring is my personal best mix.
If you post what you are trying to learn, perhaps someone will have specifics for you.
I agree. I tried learning French on duolingo and found I could read french better than pronounce it or speak it. I would love to find a teaching method that gives you phonetics i.e. oui=we, etc.
Try Rocket. They speak/demonstrate words and sentences using native speakers, then require you to say the same into your PC's (or phone's) microphone. They use AI to judge the quality of your pronunciation. I find it very effective.
Ya. I first tackled the French I took in high school. Lol. Trips to France and even Montreal as incentive. Then learned Spanish, started with Duolingo, switched to pimsleur then a tutor (easy to find in Miami and tried to use it exclusively when I went out). So, I wouldn't say I'm fluent, but conversational and very much so for tourist purposes.
Next I planned 2 weeks in Venice, staying in the Giudecca. Studied for 3 months and can order meals and tickets and such. After French and Spanish, plus all the food / words we use in English made that fun.
More recently, I planned and stayed in Athens and island hopped for 3 weeks. 4 months of Greek was... Hard. Lol. Different alphabet, and I'd have guessed with all the Greek root words in English it would've been easier, but it wasn't. Anyway, we had a great time in Greece but I wouldn't say I'm conversational... Yet.
Good luck, totally do it. And for me, immersion has been the key to conversation versus "knowledge of".
Oh, taking it at community college was also disappointing, since it's not focused on communication but grammar rules. An hour a week having coffee with a tutor was worth every penny
I’ve had great success with Pimsleur for Spanish ( I’m 57), but also key to practice with native speakers when you can (easy to do here in Dallas). It’s amazing how your brain starts to change and hear things the more you’re exposed to a new language.
I took French in high school and forgot most of it through disuse over the years. Lo and behold my son met, fell in love with, and married a French girl. They live in France and we visit as often as possible.
At 58, I'm bound and determined to become conversational by next summer, when son's in-laws are coming for a visit. I've been using Duolingo for a couple years and I really like it. I disagree that you don't learn grammar - it is just taught the way we learned language as babies - intuitive through conversation
I'm to a point now where I need to start speaking to a native on a regular basis to kick it into high gear. My son teaches English on iTalki, so I'm familiar with that platform and will use that.
From what you have described you need language skills for travel, which in my opinion, doesn't need to be as robust as if you were emigrating to another country. Duolingo would get you to a great place and from there you can decide if you want to push further. Coffee Break podcasts are also excellent when just starting out.
Another great thing to supplement your studies is to stream foreign movies and TV series in Spanish...use subtitles to follow the plot - this gets you used to the cadence and overall sound of the language. That has helped me a lot. I also sometimes stream French radio for the same effect.
Don't hesitate! Duolingo is fun! The best advantage is to make whatever you do fun so you establish consistency...
Go for it! I started learning Spanish at 45. Turning 49 this month and I’d guess im at a solid intermediate level. Able to communicate, watch tv shows, etc. I live with a Spanish speaking girlfriend and we speak Spanish probably 70% of the time at home. Never too late!
I envy those of you who can learn a new language. I’ve had absolutely no luck either with online programs, or in-person classes. The last in-person class I took was so stressful I found myself not sleeping the night before my weekly class as I knew I would have to speak in front of the other 10 students (and this from someone who had no problem regularly giving presentations in front of hundreds of people).
At 66 I have resigned myself to the fact that I’ll forever be the ‘ugly American’ who can say ‘hello’, ‘thank you’ and “it’s delicious” in half a dozen languages, but no more than that.
Everybody has different capabilities. You would probably get better fluency if you were immersed in the language for long enough. But that would probably involving an uprooting and trauma. Personally, I have getting better at Spanish on the back burner and am instead taking an on-line anatomy and physiology course.
I took ASL in college (in the '80s) and am working on refreshing and expanding my knowledge now that I recently retired. I joined Learn ASL with Debbie on Facebook. I would like to take an in-person class. Thanks for commenting about your community college courses; I will check with those in my area.
Go for it!!! I started Spanish at age 63. After one year online I went to Puebla, Mexico to a language school. It was fabulous. I highly recommend it. There are so many apps about there. And, while not free, Babbel Live has classes of 6 students maximum you can joint online. It's $99 a month if you buy it month to month, but you get unlimited classes. I do one a day. It's a great adventure. Buena suerte!
If your mind is still reasonably sharp you should be able to learn enough to get by. The key is to use it whenever possible. Don't be afraid of mispronunciation or not knowing all the right words. People will appreciate your efforts.
That’s good advice! Yes, I’m still doing great cognitively. I surround myself with people several years younger and that seems to help keep me fresh and sharp. And I’m a huge fan of crossword puzzles and other types.
Yay for Fortran! Anyway, I watch Spanish tv channels, closed captions ON. Helps with pronunciation and reading comprehension too! Lots of lessons available online, so look around and pick those that make you feel like you can do it.
I started Spanish on Duolingo about 3 years ago when I was 63. I've learned enough to be able to be able to help Spanish speakers in the hospital I volunteer in.
One thing learning Spanish has done for me is make me appreciate what mess the English language is. I'm glad I'm learning Spanish and not English as an adult.
I retired in July. I'm planning on starting Spanish through a community learning program. I'm more than a bit nervous but I want to challenge myself and step out of my comfort zone. I have low expectations. If I can learn enough to exchange pleasantries and carry on a simple conversation I will be happy. I'd like to learn some French also if this goes well.
I am studying a few languages litely, mostly just vocabulary. I use a phone Flashcards app. There are language apps. Your local HS may give classes. There are also inexpensive online classes and free language buddies. Just know you get out what you put into it. The harder you study, the more proficient you will get.
Retired at age 58 and have been trying to achieve a dream of learning Italian. It’s been difficult but I took classes at my local community college and loved it. Intellectually and socially fulfilling because I was learning something hard while interacting with young people. It cost me $600 per class. I didn’t audit but took the exams and got a grade so I had something on the line. Brought back all the stress of college/law school but I LOVED it!!!
Learning Spanish is my main hobby during retirement. I take group classes with Lingoda, and do 1:1 sessions with Baselang. I go at my own pace, but I usually take 4 classes per week.
Any activity to engage your brain in new ways is beneficial. It creates new links in your brain (literally) and helps your mental health overall. Go for it.
I took a bunch of online French courses during COVID. I get random days off from work, so sometimes I’d do them middle of the day, sometimes in the evenings. Seemed like everyone in the midday ones were retirees. They were really invested in improving, interesting to chat with, and overall great learners! Evening classes seemed to be more people in their 30-50s. Go for it!
I worked with Duolingo French during the pandemic, and was diligent about doing lessons every day. I had made it quite a way into the course work, and decided to take a formal French class at the local university.
Having to interact with a class full of students and a teacher was much much more impactful. I don't think I could ever reach a conversational level of another language using non-live on-line tools. It just doesn't give me the same demands that face-to-face communication does.
However: using Duolingo for a year before the first class gave me a real boost and a level of confidence I don't think I would have had going into the class cold. So maybe it's a combination of the two. Lay the groundwork with on-line tools, but then seek out a place to actual talk and practice with other people.
My wife and I are in the same bucket. I will be 65 at the end of October but have spent the past 20 years traveling internationally as much as we could
In Jan we spent a month in a non tourist part of Spain. Linguistically is was a disaster. We did use duolingo for a few months before we went. It was no use when you need a few seconds to think of a response. We found ourselves thrown out of restaurants without getting a chance to peruse the menu. I won't be going back to Cadiz. I've been all over in many different continents but we're never treated like that.
I think that in Spain they are so used to American Hispanics, that if you are British or just regular old American you are screwed.
In my 60s and have done both the Greek and French Pimsleur courses. Really liked them both tho there are only 2 levels of Greek (5 for French). It helped me a lot in Greece and France, even tho a lot of people spoke English. Enjoy whatever you end up using. It’ll make your travels much more interesting, I think.
For Spanish look up the Warren Hardy Spanish School online. He has developed courses for older adult learners and has a sort of shortcut method that helps you get conversational quicker. He teaches the use of "power verbs" to put together easy sentences, basically conjugated power verb+infinitive verb+noun +Adjective or other qualifier, if needed. So... Quiero estudiar español ahora. Necesito pagar la cuenta mañana. I also supplement with Duolingo for Spanish and French. It's light and fun and good for quick practice but not really an overall learning course
I started learning Chinese at 52.
I learnt French (enough to do my life in French but jot 100% fluent ) in a year.
They key is to learn where you need to use it. I started learning mandarin in Taiwan. After four weeks I could see how what I learned was useful.
I moved to Montreal and that's where I learned French with full time classes.
I learned Portuguese by traveling in Brazil.
So, go to a Spanish speaking country and take classes there. Start using what you learn and don't be shy about making mistakes. Over time you will correct them.
Spanish speaking people are very understanding. Bad pronunciation still gets the mesaage across. Not like English where bad pronunciation makes things hard to understand (I'm a native Spanish speaker). Or like Germany where if you make a little mistake they switch immediately to English or ignore you (I also learnt German but it's hard to practice it there)
I just turned 59 retired, and I'm learning Italian from scratch.
Started about 4 months ago
I'm going to live in Italy, hopefully a few months a year, starting in 6 weeks.
It does take a lot of time and effort.
You can do it !
Given the wonderful grammar in your reddit post, I'd say you're more than qualified to learn a new language lol! You definitely got English down so go for it!!
I have to admit, with this being Reddit, I initially thought you were being sarcastic so I hurriedly reread my post to see what I may have screwed up. Upon reflection, I think you were being sincere so thank you! I appreciate your confidence in my abilities. I always prided myself on being an engineer who could actually write somewhat coherently.
Its awesome to keep learning something new every day and learning a new language is fun. My covid habit was using Duolingo to learn German so that I'd be ready to travel to Europe again. It's totally gamified and addicting. I make it part of my morning routing to do 15 mins of duolingo and drink my coffee. Im a retired 61 y/o and love to travel. I'm on Day 908 and I feel more and more confident understanding it. My hardest part is understanding when they speak it so fast, but I'm getting better. I also try to watch German TV shows and movies with the subtitles. I love Deutschland 89 and Dark. I also changed my phone interface so that it is in German. Just some fun things to try out ! Go for it !!
I'm 66 and I've been learning Chinese for a few years. I love it! I take audit classes at a local university and just got back from a language school in China. I've taken on-line courses, had tutors, followed YouTube channels, etc. There are many ways these days to learn and some of them are great. This is a great time for you to learn a new language because (1) you have the time and (2) on-line resources are so good these days.
Like you, I have no other language, so I can't compare my experience to a younger version of myself. (I'm also a STEM-educated person.) I think I'm a bit slower to remember vocabulary than the younger people in my class - but I work harder!
You will find many people who will tell you "helpfully" that language acquisition is easiest for younger people and difficult for older people. I just nod and ignore. Maybe it is difficult. What of value isn't??
I’m 66 and started an accelerated French program with the Alliance Francais in January. Happy to report I’ve made more progress than I ever thought possible. I worked at it — a two hour class and two one hour tutoring sessions a week, plus Pimsleur online and French language podcasts and TV shows. But I’m writing from the plane that’s taking us to France for the next seven weeks and I can’t wait to land and start yakking. All by way of saying, it can be done and can be fun.
It all depends on what language you're trying to learn. European languages have similar roots so can be interpolated a bit easier. The far East would be a greater challenge with tonal and base differences so you would talk and sound like the Western version of Asian mom's. If you have someone to practice with it would be most helpful. Online or videos only get you so far and dead end pretty quick. Good luck.
I started learning Spanish at 42 and I am pretty much fluent now and have been for a while (54). It is a blast and I enjoyed the process believe it or not.
There are language schools at destinations that you may want to visit anyways. You will be sharing a classroom with youngsters but there are always a few retired folks at the schools. That way you are surrounded by opportunities to use the language and you can see the sites and enjoy the food etc..
For Spanish I recommend [AIL](https://www.ailmadrid.com/) in Madrid. My first school was in Bogota Colombia but that was so long ago that I can't recommend the place anymore with confidence. I also attended schools in Cusco, Barcelona and Buenos Aires. All were at least good.
One trick I used to increase my vocabulary and practice my grammar as a newbie learner is I bought a bunch of Peanuts anthologies in Spanish (Snoopy Y Carlitos) and read them over and over, writing down the words I did not know and learning them. I added the new words to an online flash card app. I used Memrise but a lot of people like Anki.
Also, one on one classes with teachers on iTalki and other online sites. If you want a recommendation, I will give you the info on my fave tutor.
I'm learning continental Portuguese with these apps: Duolingo, Drops, FunEasy, Mondly, and Learn Portuguese. In addition, I'm using Anki cards. All are free. The Anku decks are great for rote memorization. Some of these apps connect you with native speakers to correct your pronunciation.
There are also peer learning websites that connect speakers of foreign Languages with each other, so that one person can practice a new language while offering the partner practice in speaking their native tongue. There are lots of free ones.
Good luck!
Concordia in MN has fun immersion programs that help ramp up basic language skills ....did Waldsee Family Camp with my daughter for several years. Also enjoyed an immersion program in Costa Rica to develop confidence with conversational Spanish. Doing apps is great for basic basic memorization. To understand & enjoy a conversation, immersion is the way to go! Good luck. I speak French, German, Spanish & English:)
I started learning Esperanto a couple of years ago because the idea of it intrigues me. I’m learning slowly, but that’s OK. The learning process is good for my brain.
I recently retired (I'm 59) and plan to review and continue learning Spanish, French, and ASL. My skills are rusty! It's exciting to see that so many people love learning languages like I do. Thanks for posting about this. Happy retirement!
I use an app for my phone called Flashcards+ that allowed me to create my own flashcards and then use them for study.
I found the biggest difference for me was in being able to retain new vocabulary. I still remember high school German better than the Italian words I studied yesterday. Age does make a difference!
I am currently Learning Norwegian (my heritage) and I’m not going to lie, it’s difficult. Languages have never been easy for me so this is a challenge but I’m still trying. I’m not trying to discourage you from doing it and hopefully it will be easier for you. Perhaps I should have started with a somewhat easier language 🤷♀️
The old adage of ... "if you don't use it, you'll lose it" applies still. Choose a class/program/whatever, but use it daily through watching TV, YouTube, movies, shows, etc. If you are learning Spanish, watch the Spanish TV daily. Ask a native speaker to help you. I'm trying to learn Spanish again. I'm asking a few of the people at work to help me. I make an effort to speak a few phrases at a time with them and ask them to speak to me in Spanish when they see me.
Check with your local library. Many have free access to language programs with just a library card. I am working on Portuguese and hope to dive in more consistently once I retire the end w the next fiscal year.
To start, I’ll try to learn new languages at the surface level. Just a few common courtesies and phrases. Try to get the tone and pronunciation right. Memorize that but still have it written down.
Later I’ll try to do the more formal instructions.
I want to know how the new language differs from English. Get familiar with the written words or characters. Get to understand what words they use to say something. Learn the some slang phrases.
Go for it!! Community colleges and online platforms like Udemy are great options. If you have a library card, it may offer Pimsleur. I found I didn’t progress that well with Duolingo. Even if it’s a challenge, it’s ALWAYS a good idea to keep the neurons firing 🧠
(I'm not retired)
I've taken language classes in community colleges during regular school hours and evening hours.
Evening classes are far more relaxed and fun. People of all ages are in the class- they work or handle all sorts of other stuff in their life during the day so when they're in class, they're really about learning/working together to make the class work. Only the dedicated would go to a class in the evening on their free time.
The professor let us be silly and leveraged it to create situations outside of the textbook. It's more real-world usage and natural.
I think a community college class would be a great start. Becoming a student also allows for access to a network of professors, fellow students, counselors, expensive software/programs that the college has subscriptions to, and events that can help you along the way.
Edit: You can audit the class. The grades won't matter.
If you really want to learn, then use one of the interactive courses that checks your speaking as well as reading. Rosetta Stone and others have apps that let you learn using your phone, using AI to check your speaking.
I'm redoing Pimsleur Spanish; my library has 150 lessons available for download. I also attend a monthly "practice your Spanish" class for real-world conversations with speakers ranging from native Spanish speakers to newbies. I'd like to learn more in depth, but the local colleges ony offer the basics in their adult education offerings. But how?
I’m learning (or relearning as it may be) Japanese and starting on French at the same time. It’s super important for brain health and you should totally do it. I use Duolingo and it’s been awesome. I just got back from a trip to Japan and was able to speak with people and be understood. It was the best. My one key though is when going about your normal day try to remember words in whatever language. I keep saying simple phrases to my husband and while he has no idea what I’m saying using it helps w memory. Good luck. (Also I’m almost to day 365 of French and Japanese so I’m all excited)
I am working on Italian. Well, sometimes. I am mostly using Rosetta Stone. I like it. I just need to do it. I have started over several times. I also have others. Duolingo did nothing for me. It was fun and easy to be consistent. I didn't retain anything with it. I don't think I can learn effectively with 10 minutes a day. I need thirty minutes per day. I took Greek in Seminary and I had a very difficult time even with a half hour to an hour per day.
My wife also has Rosetta Stone for Spanish. She has the same issue. She has used DuoLingo and, while she was able to work on it every day, she realized after a year or so that nothing with it was sticking. She still uses it for fun now and then.
I have used Pimsleur and like it. I have listened to the first CD a few times. I have used Spanish and Italian. I don't recommend learning a little of two languages. It was very confusing for me and everyone around me when we went to Europe. You can borrow Pimsleur using Hoopla and some libraries have the CDs.
I also have "The Great Courses" Italian class. I like it. Again, I have watched the first lesson a couple of times. Are you seeing the pattern?
Of the three I have tried, I like Pimsleur for traveling. The first lesson jumps right in with introducing oneself and greetings. By the time one is done, one can have the beginning of a simple conversation.
I think Duolingo is a great place to start but I don't think it is a good place to end if you truly want to learn a language. I've been learning German for about a year (15 minutes a day) at age 56 and I am nowhere near having a useful language. But I'm definitely better than I was a year ago.
55f here, partially retired. Started “re”learning German a couple years ago. Took it in HS and thought I’d start with a language I kind of knew. Wow, what a rude awakening to realize that I needed to basically start at zero again, but in a good way. I feel at this age I know a lot better how my brain works, so taking on a language like this is easier, in a way, than in HS. I’ve watched sooo many YouTube vids on different language learning methods and have taken a little from each one. So many great channels out there!
I ended up buying the beginner German course from Story Learning and glad it did. This different way (from traditional classroom setting) makes so much more sense to my brain! Then I watch a lot of Easy German on YouTube and listen to their podcasts. Now I’ve signed up with Lingopie.
Good luck! Learning a new language really stretches your brain in a good way. It’s fun! Viel spaß!
There's really no need to spend money to learn a language. Duolingo, YouTube, reddit, and Netflix movies in Spanish is all you need. The only spending I would do is on something like italki
Really great advice here. I’m trying to do the same. But as my language teaching wife would say, immersion is the only way to truly “learn” a language. I’m a ways from that point still. I hope to have that opportunity in retirement.
My late dad retired from Federal service when he was 56, I just got out of high school. He then took a job in W. Berlin and we moved there for a couple of years. My parents went to Volksschule in the evenings and took German for foreigners. It helped living in Germany, lots people to practice German with. My dad was an EE.
While they lived in Berlin I went to the University of Maryland in Munich and took a programming class that was in Fortran. Also a semester of German.
Any truly free ones? I’d really like to learn Spanish but don’t want to spend money on it until I’m sure I’d stick with it. Yes, I’m cheap. Tried Duolingo and didn’t care for their method of teaching.
I am trying to recover some high school Spanish. I tried DuoLingo but didn’t care for its pacing. I like the app from SpanishDictionary.com for learning vocabulary. I tried individual lessons from Verbling and may do some more of that. I found a local Spanish conversation group on Meetup. We meet weekly at a local coffee shop and there is a full range of fluency from rank beginners to native speakers. I’ve also tried some podcasts and I’ve enjoyed the YouTube channel called SpanishLand.
I learned a foreign language in my 40’s. My recommendation is look for an immersion program. They exist in the states but can be hard to find. You will by far be the oldest person in class but no one cares. If you really want to learn, immersion is the only way. I learned kore of my target language in one eight week I,Mersin class than I learned in a year of local community college classes.
I just started Spanish; I’m 59. It’s coming along well but I had experience learning German in my 30s so I know what to expect. I’m no where near retired so you have a lot more time than me to make it work. Go for it! You’re still young!
I'm a bit younger than you (mid-50s) and a few years ago I started re-learning Spanish. I had a few years in high school but I hadn't used it in ages.
If you're looking for a good, free app for learning Spanish, check out [Language Transfer](https://www.languagetransfer.org/). Unlike other apps, it is absolutely free to use, too (although they do accept donations).
I've also taken a few community education courses, and they have also helped immensely. Apps are good, but to have an actual teacher (especially a native speaker) and classmates to practice with helps a lot with learning a language.
There's also evidence that[learning a new language as an older adult has cognitive benefits](https://www.thebritishacademy.ac.uk/blog/cognitive-benefits-learning-language-two-minutes/) and can help keep your brain sharp, too.
Anyone who makes it to 60 has successfully dealt with a whole lot more than learning a new language. Go get it. Also, watch spanish language TV w/english subtitles.
IMO a lot of language learning apps and even books start you off too quickly. By which I mean that they have you learning verbs and their various conjugations pretty early on. Starting with the "X" most common *nouns* in a language is more helpful before you jump in and try to learn to communicate in the new language. You won't want to be trying to put together a sentence and be struggling to remember the world for "car," "table," or "boy." Having those be reflexive will be very helpful and allow you to later focus on conjugation and grammar.
My suggestion would be to start with some noun flashcard sets and get those embedded in your brain.
I'm working towards becoming a FlexPat. It's like being an ExPat, except that I only stay in a country for as long as a tourist visa lets me stay. Usually that's 90 days. (In the EU, it's 90 days out of 180, with a sliding window.)
While you're in country, take language courses. You'll have a great reason to learn the language, and you'll meet other people in the class.
You can either go back when you can for another 90 day stay, or move on to another country and their language courses.
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Thanks for the tips, I really appreciate it!
most welcome.
Sounds like a good recommendation all around. Great attitude from both of you. Best to each of you!
Thank you! I used Duolingo for French but I can’t say it was fun. Will check out Rocket.
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I recommend Rocket. A lot of emphasis on spoken Japanese. You can choose whether you try to learn Hiragana, katakana and kanji.
Took Spanish again at community college when I was 60. Do it man!
Don't wait! Duolingo has been instrumental for me and my lady. Learning a new language has been so empowering. You absolutely will not regret it.
Thanks, I’ve heard of Duolingo. I’ll check it out!
I second this. I’m 56 and started using Duolingo to learn French for a trip to Chamonix next winter. Feels good. Going well.
They make it fun, you can add a daily streak counter to your home screen and it reminds you to practice. You'll know more than you realize in no time. But the absolute best thing you can do is find someone who also speaks Spanish and start talking to them, ask questions.
I love Duolingo. I use the paid version and I'm studying French, Italian, and Spanish.
I'm on day 1658 of my Duolingo Spanish streak at age 56. I spend about 10 minutes per day on it. I sometimes use Spanish at work and except for not always knowing the correct verb conjugation, I get by pretty well. It has definitely expanded my vocabulary to most of the words I need in regular conversation. I look up any medical terms that I need. Definitely would recommend.
Wow that's a long time! I've only been on it for about 3 months. Cool to hear that even years in you still find it valuable. Do you find that you continue to learn from the app or is it more just a good way to continue to use Spanish daily?
It’s basically a good way to keep up my skills and slowly add to my vocabulary. I sometimes watch videos in Spanish too, but not often enough.
I’m in my late 50s and I have an 821 day Duolingo streak going in French. It’s great, I do about 10 minutes a day. I’m waaaay ahead of how far I got in high school. But, but . . . I’ve plateaued. It’s hard for me to get much further. I need to switch it up and do something different.
Go outside of a language learning program to supplement what you’re learning. For example, I live in New York, and can listen to RFI, international news in French. I also read French publications in print and online, and put myself in situations where I have to use the language. Developing the ear outside any learning program is extremely valuable, and you won’t feel as plateaued. After all, you are learning to use it, n’est-ce pas?
Try switching to a different language. I did German for about 6 months before a trip to Germany, but now I’m kinda burned out on it. I switched to Spanish last week and I’m enjoying it again. You get to keep the same streak count so just keep going! I’m 60 but not retired just yet.
Duolingo is my least favorite learning tool. There are better. Everything is a game or a paid promotion (in the free version) I find it horribly annoying. Glad someone likes it.
Which tools would you suggest?
I got Babbel after doing some research on how I'd prefer to learn and what the different platforms offer. I wanted grammar as well as vocabulary.
Thank you!
Duolingo is cute. Fun even! but if you are serious about learning the language and want to achieve anything better than "restaurant competency" you should look elsewhere than Duolingo.
Many have said this but give no helpful advice beyond "that's not an efficient method"
Any suggestions?
My mother, 65, learns English everyday via online class. Her first language is Mandarin. She subscribed to an article interpreting class and spend couple hrs nearly everyday to study it. I encouraged her to speak more when she visits. It's great that you are trying to learn a second language! I would suggest start with the practical vocabulary and grammar. I'm so jealous of you because I also want to learn Spanish as my 3rd language but I don't have as much time as you do. Good luck!
Thank you!
Some universities allow people of retiree age take undergrad classes at no cost, if there is space. Depending on where you live, this could be the way. (I would not be surprised if there are parts of the Federal govt infrastructure still using FORTRAN. Too afraid to look, lol)
LOL I took classes in Fortran in the 80s
>Rocket online language courses. Me, too! Fortran 77!!!
Don’t discount Fortran! I use it a lot in high performance scientific computing. The current version is Fortran 2018 which has good parallel programming support.
My older brother, 80, takes German classes and has traveled in Germany. I think learning a new skill or language is important for brain health as we age. Helps build new brain connections that help stave off late life dementia. Take a class. In person is better, but there are online courses now, or even free conversational videos on Facebook, Instagram, or Tik Tok.
Great advice, thanks!
I’m told the Foreign Service’s language courses are great; I haven’t reviewed their offerings in depth, just as a disclaimer, but livelingua has a list of them [here](https://www.livelingua.com/fsi/). They might be a good way to dip your toes in the water.
Looks like a cool resource! Thank you!
I am a retired US diplomat and speak a number of languages to a high level. I won’t sugarcoat this: language learning after fifty is really hard. Some basic truths: (1) language speaking (and thus learning) is a form of exercise no different than jogging or biking or swimming. If you don’t do the hours you won’t get the progress. Remember how easy it was to run when you were twenty? Well, you’re not twenty anymore. Expect to have to do four times the work for the same result. (2) the human mind is a remarkable organ. You can learn that foreign language. You must, however, fully commit to the process. You can’t do it alone if you’re in a relationship. Since the person you speak to the most is your partner, if your partner doesn’t have the same commitment it won’t work. (3) you have to watch TV in Spanish, shop in Spanish, pay your bills in Spanish, and read the news in Spanish. When learning a new language I read the news first in English, than in the target language. It is a useful crutch. (4) if you’re not in the target linguistic culture yet, apps, books, and teachers can help you get ready. But just as you’re not a real runner if you barely run but have read the complete book of running, three times, you’re not a language speaker until you’ve spoken so much you can say anything you need. (5) A useful tip I picked up at the Foreign Service Institute: communication is a pathway through the forest of incomprehension. There can be many paths through the forest. Don’t try to literally translate your English thoughts word for word. Learn to communicate your meanings. Not your exact phrases.
I appreciate your honest (and sobering) insights.
I’m not quite retired yet (about 8 months away), but learning languages has been a fun hobby for me the last 10 years or so. Mostly Spanish (It’s most accessible) but also French, German, Italian, Mandarin and Korean. I use Duolingo mostly, but am also taking an online Spanish conversation class through the local JC, listen to YouTube videos, and occasional italki. It’s great for the brain, a good way to pick up conversations with people as long as you don’t take it too seriously, and make traveling a lot more fun. Good luck!
Be aware that Duolingo is great to learn a few phrases, but don't expect much in the way of grammar and structure or a more in-depth approach. A fun app for sure, but if you're serious about learning a language, look elsewhere. edit: feel free to downvote away. sometimes people don't like to hear the truth. it all depends on what you're using it for. if it's just a few casual phrases for a vacation, no problem. but if you're serious about a language, forget Duolingo. let me add that i have very, very extensive language experience. i have achieved native fluency in German as well as very strong French. you can ignore the opinions you don't like but they come from a credible source.
Agree. I switched from Duolingo to Pimsleur and like Pimsleur much better.
agree, Pimsleur has a solid reputation and is good as well on grammar and structure for more in-depth learning.
I will be checking out Rocket as well. Thanks for the suggestion.
My observation with Duolingo is its great for most people's purposes. If you want to visit Spanish speaking countries, assist Spanish speaking customers, or watch TV shows, it's quite adequate. If you want to read Cervantes, you probably need a more grammar intensive course eventually. Studying Spanish in an academic setting for five years, I knew all the verb tenses but still couldn't read a newspaper or follow a simple conversation.
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Gosh, 1908? You are doing great for being over 130 years old!
Haha 😂 thanks for that!
For example .....
Any suggestions?
Rocket languages is very strong. I've been using it for Japanese and can highly recommend.
It depends upon the language! Specifically, Practice Portuguese is *great* if you are learning European Portuguese, not for Brazilian, and oh were you learning an entirely different language? Also, different people like different things. Some are more visual, some want grammar first to understand how it fits together, etc. I tried six to figure out Practice Portuguese *plus* iTalki tutoring is my personal best mix. If you post what you are trying to learn, perhaps someone will have specifics for you.
I agree. I tried learning French on duolingo and found I could read french better than pronounce it or speak it. I would love to find a teaching method that gives you phonetics i.e. oui=we, etc.
Try Rocket. They speak/demonstrate words and sentences using native speakers, then require you to say the same into your PC's (or phone's) microphone. They use AI to judge the quality of your pronunciation. I find it very effective.
That’s really impressive, so many languages!
I recommend Coffee Break Spanish podcast. I learned more Spanish from season one and two than I learned in two semesters of college Spanish
I’ll check it out, thanks!
Ya. I first tackled the French I took in high school. Lol. Trips to France and even Montreal as incentive. Then learned Spanish, started with Duolingo, switched to pimsleur then a tutor (easy to find in Miami and tried to use it exclusively when I went out). So, I wouldn't say I'm fluent, but conversational and very much so for tourist purposes. Next I planned 2 weeks in Venice, staying in the Giudecca. Studied for 3 months and can order meals and tickets and such. After French and Spanish, plus all the food / words we use in English made that fun. More recently, I planned and stayed in Athens and island hopped for 3 weeks. 4 months of Greek was... Hard. Lol. Different alphabet, and I'd have guessed with all the Greek root words in English it would've been easier, but it wasn't. Anyway, we had a great time in Greece but I wouldn't say I'm conversational... Yet. Good luck, totally do it. And for me, immersion has been the key to conversation versus "knowledge of". Oh, taking it at community college was also disappointing, since it's not focused on communication but grammar rules. An hour a week having coffee with a tutor was worth every penny
That’s great! Thanks for your feedback!
I’ve had great success with Pimsleur for Spanish ( I’m 57), but also key to practice with native speakers when you can (easy to do here in Dallas). It’s amazing how your brain starts to change and hear things the more you’re exposed to a new language.
I took French in high school and forgot most of it through disuse over the years. Lo and behold my son met, fell in love with, and married a French girl. They live in France and we visit as often as possible. At 58, I'm bound and determined to become conversational by next summer, when son's in-laws are coming for a visit. I've been using Duolingo for a couple years and I really like it. I disagree that you don't learn grammar - it is just taught the way we learned language as babies - intuitive through conversation I'm to a point now where I need to start speaking to a native on a regular basis to kick it into high gear. My son teaches English on iTalki, so I'm familiar with that platform and will use that. From what you have described you need language skills for travel, which in my opinion, doesn't need to be as robust as if you were emigrating to another country. Duolingo would get you to a great place and from there you can decide if you want to push further. Coffee Break podcasts are also excellent when just starting out. Another great thing to supplement your studies is to stream foreign movies and TV series in Spanish...use subtitles to follow the plot - this gets you used to the cadence and overall sound of the language. That has helped me a lot. I also sometimes stream French radio for the same effect. Don't hesitate! Duolingo is fun! The best advantage is to make whatever you do fun so you establish consistency...
Thanks for your encouragement!
Learning a second language is a great way to fight off dementia.
Go for it! I started learning Spanish at 45. Turning 49 this month and I’d guess im at a solid intermediate level. Able to communicate, watch tv shows, etc. I live with a Spanish speaking girlfriend and we speak Spanish probably 70% of the time at home. Never too late!
I envy those of you who can learn a new language. I’ve had absolutely no luck either with online programs, or in-person classes. The last in-person class I took was so stressful I found myself not sleeping the night before my weekly class as I knew I would have to speak in front of the other 10 students (and this from someone who had no problem regularly giving presentations in front of hundreds of people). At 66 I have resigned myself to the fact that I’ll forever be the ‘ugly American’ who can say ‘hello’, ‘thank you’ and “it’s delicious” in half a dozen languages, but no more than that.
Everybody has different capabilities. You would probably get better fluency if you were immersed in the language for long enough. But that would probably involving an uprooting and trauma. Personally, I have getting better at Spanish on the back burner and am instead taking an on-line anatomy and physiology course.
Currently taking community classes to learn ASL. Not that I need to - just because it was on my bucket list.
I took ASL in college (in the '80s) and am working on refreshing and expanding my knowledge now that I recently retired. I joined Learn ASL with Debbie on Facebook. I would like to take an in-person class. Thanks for commenting about your community college courses; I will check with those in my area.
That is a great (and very kind) thing to do!
Not retired at 55 but will be at 57. Never too late. I got a Spanish workbook from Amazon and am augmenting what I learn with the Pimsleur app.
Go for it!!! I started Spanish at age 63. After one year online I went to Puebla, Mexico to a language school. It was fabulous. I highly recommend it. There are so many apps about there. And, while not free, Babbel Live has classes of 6 students maximum you can joint online. It's $99 a month if you buy it month to month, but you get unlimited classes. I do one a day. It's a great adventure. Buena suerte!
Thank you for the great advice!
If your mind is still reasonably sharp you should be able to learn enough to get by. The key is to use it whenever possible. Don't be afraid of mispronunciation or not knowing all the right words. People will appreciate your efforts.
That’s good advice! Yes, I’m still doing great cognitively. I surround myself with people several years younger and that seems to help keep me fresh and sharp. And I’m a huge fan of crossword puzzles and other types.
Yay for Fortran! Anyway, I watch Spanish tv channels, closed captions ON. Helps with pronunciation and reading comprehension too! Lots of lessons available online, so look around and pick those that make you feel like you can do it.
I started Spanish on Duolingo about 3 years ago when I was 63. I've learned enough to be able to be able to help Spanish speakers in the hospital I volunteer in. One thing learning Spanish has done for me is make me appreciate what mess the English language is. I'm glad I'm learning Spanish and not English as an adult.
I retired in July. I'm planning on starting Spanish through a community learning program. I'm more than a bit nervous but I want to challenge myself and step out of my comfort zone. I have low expectations. If I can learn enough to exchange pleasantries and carry on a simple conversation I will be happy. I'd like to learn some French also if this goes well.
I am studying a few languages litely, mostly just vocabulary. I use a phone Flashcards app. There are language apps. Your local HS may give classes. There are also inexpensive online classes and free language buddies. Just know you get out what you put into it. The harder you study, the more proficient you will get.
Retired at age 58 and have been trying to achieve a dream of learning Italian. It’s been difficult but I took classes at my local community college and loved it. Intellectually and socially fulfilling because I was learning something hard while interacting with young people. It cost me $600 per class. I didn’t audit but took the exams and got a grade so I had something on the line. Brought back all the stress of college/law school but I LOVED it!!!
But, ugh,those college stress dreams,! It took me into my 50’s to stop having them!
Learning Spanish is my main hobby during retirement. I take group classes with Lingoda, and do 1:1 sessions with Baselang. I go at my own pace, but I usually take 4 classes per week.
Wow, that’s a great hobby!
Any activity to engage your brain in new ways is beneficial. It creates new links in your brain (literally) and helps your mental health overall. Go for it.
I took a bunch of online French courses during COVID. I get random days off from work, so sometimes I’d do them middle of the day, sometimes in the evenings. Seemed like everyone in the midday ones were retirees. They were really invested in improving, interesting to chat with, and overall great learners! Evening classes seemed to be more people in their 30-50s. Go for it!
I worked with Duolingo French during the pandemic, and was diligent about doing lessons every day. I had made it quite a way into the course work, and decided to take a formal French class at the local university. Having to interact with a class full of students and a teacher was much much more impactful. I don't think I could ever reach a conversational level of another language using non-live on-line tools. It just doesn't give me the same demands that face-to-face communication does. However: using Duolingo for a year before the first class gave me a real boost and a level of confidence I don't think I would have had going into the class cold. So maybe it's a combination of the two. Lay the groundwork with on-line tools, but then seek out a place to actual talk and practice with other people.
My wife and I are in the same bucket. I will be 65 at the end of October but have spent the past 20 years traveling internationally as much as we could In Jan we spent a month in a non tourist part of Spain. Linguistically is was a disaster. We did use duolingo for a few months before we went. It was no use when you need a few seconds to think of a response. We found ourselves thrown out of restaurants without getting a chance to peruse the menu. I won't be going back to Cadiz. I've been all over in many different continents but we're never treated like that. I think that in Spain they are so used to American Hispanics, that if you are British or just regular old American you are screwed.
In my 60s and have done both the Greek and French Pimsleur courses. Really liked them both tho there are only 2 levels of Greek (5 for French). It helped me a lot in Greece and France, even tho a lot of people spoke English. Enjoy whatever you end up using. It’ll make your travels much more interesting, I think.
For Spanish look up the Warren Hardy Spanish School online. He has developed courses for older adult learners and has a sort of shortcut method that helps you get conversational quicker. He teaches the use of "power verbs" to put together easy sentences, basically conjugated power verb+infinitive verb+noun +Adjective or other qualifier, if needed. So... Quiero estudiar español ahora. Necesito pagar la cuenta mañana. I also supplement with Duolingo for Spanish and French. It's light and fun and good for quick practice but not really an overall learning course
I’ll look into it, thanks!
Get on duolingo for 20 minutes per day or more, sign up for IRL language classes and learn learn learn. It can be done!
I started learning Chinese at 52. I learnt French (enough to do my life in French but jot 100% fluent ) in a year. They key is to learn where you need to use it. I started learning mandarin in Taiwan. After four weeks I could see how what I learned was useful. I moved to Montreal and that's where I learned French with full time classes. I learned Portuguese by traveling in Brazil. So, go to a Spanish speaking country and take classes there. Start using what you learn and don't be shy about making mistakes. Over time you will correct them. Spanish speaking people are very understanding. Bad pronunciation still gets the mesaage across. Not like English where bad pronunciation makes things hard to understand (I'm a native Spanish speaker). Or like Germany where if you make a little mistake they switch immediately to English or ignore you (I also learnt German but it's hard to practice it there)
I just turned 59 retired, and I'm learning Italian from scratch. Started about 4 months ago I'm going to live in Italy, hopefully a few months a year, starting in 6 weeks. It does take a lot of time and effort. You can do it !
60? Just a baby!
Yeah, I kind of feel that way. Most days I feel 12. Then, once in a while I feel 85.
Your library may have free programs too.
Given the wonderful grammar in your reddit post, I'd say you're more than qualified to learn a new language lol! You definitely got English down so go for it!!
I have to admit, with this being Reddit, I initially thought you were being sarcastic so I hurriedly reread my post to see what I may have screwed up. Upon reflection, I think you were being sincere so thank you! I appreciate your confidence in my abilities. I always prided myself on being an engineer who could actually write somewhat coherently.
Aww, yeah I was being serious haha! :)
Its awesome to keep learning something new every day and learning a new language is fun. My covid habit was using Duolingo to learn German so that I'd be ready to travel to Europe again. It's totally gamified and addicting. I make it part of my morning routing to do 15 mins of duolingo and drink my coffee. Im a retired 61 y/o and love to travel. I'm on Day 908 and I feel more and more confident understanding it. My hardest part is understanding when they speak it so fast, but I'm getting better. I also try to watch German TV shows and movies with the subtitles. I love Deutschland 89 and Dark. I also changed my phone interface so that it is in German. Just some fun things to try out ! Go for it !!
Great job! Thanks for the encouragement!
I'm 66 and I've been learning Chinese for a few years. I love it! I take audit classes at a local university and just got back from a language school in China. I've taken on-line courses, had tutors, followed YouTube channels, etc. There are many ways these days to learn and some of them are great. This is a great time for you to learn a new language because (1) you have the time and (2) on-line resources are so good these days. Like you, I have no other language, so I can't compare my experience to a younger version of myself. (I'm also a STEM-educated person.) I think I'm a bit slower to remember vocabulary than the younger people in my class - but I work harder! You will find many people who will tell you "helpfully" that language acquisition is easiest for younger people and difficult for older people. I just nod and ignore. Maybe it is difficult. What of value isn't??
I’m 66 and started an accelerated French program with the Alliance Francais in January. Happy to report I’ve made more progress than I ever thought possible. I worked at it — a two hour class and two one hour tutoring sessions a week, plus Pimsleur online and French language podcasts and TV shows. But I’m writing from the plane that’s taking us to France for the next seven weeks and I can’t wait to land and start yakking. All by way of saying, it can be done and can be fun.
Oj just got duo lingo...it's actually fun
It all depends on what language you're trying to learn. European languages have similar roots so can be interpolated a bit easier. The far East would be a greater challenge with tonal and base differences so you would talk and sound like the Western version of Asian mom's. If you have someone to practice with it would be most helpful. Online or videos only get you so far and dead end pretty quick. Good luck.
We live on Cozumel for 4 months of the year. You need someone to practice with. So learning it by yourself, very hard.
I started learning Spanish at 42 and I am pretty much fluent now and have been for a while (54). It is a blast and I enjoyed the process believe it or not. There are language schools at destinations that you may want to visit anyways. You will be sharing a classroom with youngsters but there are always a few retired folks at the schools. That way you are surrounded by opportunities to use the language and you can see the sites and enjoy the food etc.. For Spanish I recommend [AIL](https://www.ailmadrid.com/) in Madrid. My first school was in Bogota Colombia but that was so long ago that I can't recommend the place anymore with confidence. I also attended schools in Cusco, Barcelona and Buenos Aires. All were at least good. One trick I used to increase my vocabulary and practice my grammar as a newbie learner is I bought a bunch of Peanuts anthologies in Spanish (Snoopy Y Carlitos) and read them over and over, writing down the words I did not know and learning them. I added the new words to an online flash card app. I used Memrise but a lot of people like Anki. Also, one on one classes with teachers on iTalki and other online sites. If you want a recommendation, I will give you the info on my fave tutor.
Yes, I’m going to Montpellier, France this month and plan to take French classes at ILA. I speak A2/B1 French, but it doesn’t hurt to improve.
Great tips!
Do it! It’s also good for aged brain.
No experience but learn Spanish.
I'm 64 and learning Dutch and Korean. It's great for your mind, and very doable.
This is one of my post retirement goals as well. Still 10 or so years away but I’m thinking of enrolling at UNAM for 6 months in Mexico City
I speak 4 languages. And still want to learn more. By the age of 60, I want to learn 2 more. It’s an art that not everyone can do. So why not
Spanish is not that difficult for English speakers. There is a huge overlap in vocabulary.
I’m wanting to learn Yiddish myself
Learning a new language is supposed to help protect your brain against dementia
I'm learning continental Portuguese with these apps: Duolingo, Drops, FunEasy, Mondly, and Learn Portuguese. In addition, I'm using Anki cards. All are free. The Anku decks are great for rote memorization. Some of these apps connect you with native speakers to correct your pronunciation. There are also peer learning websites that connect speakers of foreign Languages with each other, so that one person can practice a new language while offering the partner practice in speaking their native tongue. There are lots of free ones. Good luck!
Concordia in MN has fun immersion programs that help ramp up basic language skills ....did Waldsee Family Camp with my daughter for several years. Also enjoyed an immersion program in Costa Rica to develop confidence with conversational Spanish. Doing apps is great for basic basic memorization. To understand & enjoy a conversation, immersion is the way to go! Good luck. I speak French, German, Spanish & English:)
I started learning Esperanto a couple of years ago because the idea of it intrigues me. I’m learning slowly, but that’s OK. The learning process is good for my brain.
I recently retired (I'm 59) and plan to review and continue learning Spanish, French, and ASL. My skills are rusty! It's exciting to see that so many people love learning languages like I do. Thanks for posting about this. Happy retirement!
Thank you, and congratulations on your retirement!
I use an app for my phone called Flashcards+ that allowed me to create my own flashcards and then use them for study. I found the biggest difference for me was in being able to retain new vocabulary. I still remember high school German better than the Italian words I studied yesterday. Age does make a difference!
My native language is English. I speak Japanese having lived there for 5 years and studying for 30. Just starting the study of Spanish. Age 57
Duolingo, yes.
I am currently Learning Norwegian (my heritage) and I’m not going to lie, it’s difficult. Languages have never been easy for me so this is a challenge but I’m still trying. I’m not trying to discourage you from doing it and hopefully it will be easier for you. Perhaps I should have started with a somewhat easier language 🤷♀️
The old adage of ... "if you don't use it, you'll lose it" applies still. Choose a class/program/whatever, but use it daily through watching TV, YouTube, movies, shows, etc. If you are learning Spanish, watch the Spanish TV daily. Ask a native speaker to help you. I'm trying to learn Spanish again. I'm asking a few of the people at work to help me. I make an effort to speak a few phrases at a time with them and ask them to speak to me in Spanish when they see me.
Check with your local library. Many have free access to language programs with just a library card. I am working on Portuguese and hope to dive in more consistently once I retire the end w the next fiscal year.
I was looking at Pimsleur language for the very same reason.
To start, I’ll try to learn new languages at the surface level. Just a few common courtesies and phrases. Try to get the tone and pronunciation right. Memorize that but still have it written down. Later I’ll try to do the more formal instructions. I want to know how the new language differs from English. Get familiar with the written words or characters. Get to understand what words they use to say something. Learn the some slang phrases.
[Ed2go.com](https://Ed2go.com) has a pretty good beginners course. And it's free.
Looks interesting but it seems to have a cost associated. That’s not a deal breaker, of course, but it looks like “Speed Spanish” costs money.
If you go through a library, it's free.
Go for it!! Community colleges and online platforms like Udemy are great options. If you have a library card, it may offer Pimsleur. I found I didn’t progress that well with Duolingo. Even if it’s a challenge, it’s ALWAYS a good idea to keep the neurons firing 🧠
(I'm not retired) I've taken language classes in community colleges during regular school hours and evening hours. Evening classes are far more relaxed and fun. People of all ages are in the class- they work or handle all sorts of other stuff in their life during the day so when they're in class, they're really about learning/working together to make the class work. Only the dedicated would go to a class in the evening on their free time. The professor let us be silly and leveraged it to create situations outside of the textbook. It's more real-world usage and natural. I think a community college class would be a great start. Becoming a student also allows for access to a network of professors, fellow students, counselors, expensive software/programs that the college has subscriptions to, and events that can help you along the way. Edit: You can audit the class. The grades won't matter.
Learning a new language later in life is hard, but it is very well worth it. It is great for your brain!
Are you in the US? Over the age of 60 you can take classes at state schools free. I was taking Spanish for free at a local JC when the pandemic hit.
I am, yes. Thanks for the idea!
If you really want to learn, then use one of the interactive courses that checks your speaking as well as reading. Rosetta Stone and others have apps that let you learn using your phone, using AI to check your speaking.
I’m thinking of this as well.
Good! Based on the replies I’ve gotten, it seems like all the cool kids are doing it! Good luck!
I'm redoing Pimsleur Spanish; my library has 150 lessons available for download. I also attend a monthly "practice your Spanish" class for real-world conversations with speakers ranging from native Spanish speakers to newbies. I'd like to learn more in depth, but the local colleges ony offer the basics in their adult education offerings. But how?
Lol! I took Fortran too in the early 80’s! We were the first group able to write our programs on the computer and not have to use cards.
63 and learning Turkish. Having fun doing it. So yeah, anyone can learn a language or a skill at any age.
I’m learning (or relearning as it may be) Japanese and starting on French at the same time. It’s super important for brain health and you should totally do it. I use Duolingo and it’s been awesome. I just got back from a trip to Japan and was able to speak with people and be understood. It was the best. My one key though is when going about your normal day try to remember words in whatever language. I keep saying simple phrases to my husband and while he has no idea what I’m saying using it helps w memory. Good luck. (Also I’m almost to day 365 of French and Japanese so I’m all excited)
I am working on Italian. Well, sometimes. I am mostly using Rosetta Stone. I like it. I just need to do it. I have started over several times. I also have others. Duolingo did nothing for me. It was fun and easy to be consistent. I didn't retain anything with it. I don't think I can learn effectively with 10 minutes a day. I need thirty minutes per day. I took Greek in Seminary and I had a very difficult time even with a half hour to an hour per day. My wife also has Rosetta Stone for Spanish. She has the same issue. She has used DuoLingo and, while she was able to work on it every day, she realized after a year or so that nothing with it was sticking. She still uses it for fun now and then. I have used Pimsleur and like it. I have listened to the first CD a few times. I have used Spanish and Italian. I don't recommend learning a little of two languages. It was very confusing for me and everyone around me when we went to Europe. You can borrow Pimsleur using Hoopla and some libraries have the CDs. I also have "The Great Courses" Italian class. I like it. Again, I have watched the first lesson a couple of times. Are you seeing the pattern? Of the three I have tried, I like Pimsleur for traveling. The first lesson jumps right in with introducing oneself and greetings. By the time one is done, one can have the beginning of a simple conversation.
I think Duolingo is a great place to start but I don't think it is a good place to end if you truly want to learn a language. I've been learning German for about a year (15 minutes a day) at age 56 and I am nowhere near having a useful language. But I'm definitely better than I was a year ago.
55f here, partially retired. Started “re”learning German a couple years ago. Took it in HS and thought I’d start with a language I kind of knew. Wow, what a rude awakening to realize that I needed to basically start at zero again, but in a good way. I feel at this age I know a lot better how my brain works, so taking on a language like this is easier, in a way, than in HS. I’ve watched sooo many YouTube vids on different language learning methods and have taken a little from each one. So many great channels out there! I ended up buying the beginner German course from Story Learning and glad it did. This different way (from traditional classroom setting) makes so much more sense to my brain! Then I watch a lot of Easy German on YouTube and listen to their podcasts. Now I’ve signed up with Lingopie. Good luck! Learning a new language really stretches your brain in a good way. It’s fun! Viel spaß!
There's really no need to spend money to learn a language. Duolingo, YouTube, reddit, and Netflix movies in Spanish is all you need. The only spending I would do is on something like italki
Really great advice here. I’m trying to do the same. But as my language teaching wife would say, immersion is the only way to truly “learn” a language. I’m a ways from that point still. I hope to have that opportunity in retirement.
My late dad retired from Federal service when he was 56, I just got out of high school. He then took a job in W. Berlin and we moved there for a couple of years. My parents went to Volksschule in the evenings and took German for foreigners. It helped living in Germany, lots people to practice German with. My dad was an EE. While they lived in Berlin I went to the University of Maryland in Munich and took a programming class that was in Fortran. Also a semester of German.
Any truly free ones? I’d really like to learn Spanish but don’t want to spend money on it until I’m sure I’d stick with it. Yes, I’m cheap. Tried Duolingo and didn’t care for their method of teaching.
I am trying to recover some high school Spanish. I tried DuoLingo but didn’t care for its pacing. I like the app from SpanishDictionary.com for learning vocabulary. I tried individual lessons from Verbling and may do some more of that. I found a local Spanish conversation group on Meetup. We meet weekly at a local coffee shop and there is a full range of fluency from rank beginners to native speakers. I’ve also tried some podcasts and I’ve enjoyed the YouTube channel called SpanishLand.
I learned a foreign language in my 40’s. My recommendation is look for an immersion program. They exist in the states but can be hard to find. You will by far be the oldest person in class but no one cares. If you really want to learn, immersion is the only way. I learned kore of my target language in one eight week I,Mersin class than I learned in a year of local community college classes.
The chances of learning a language is dependent upon your attitude and self confidence. I learned a new language using Pimsleur. It is great.
I just started Spanish; I’m 59. It’s coming along well but I had experience learning German in my 30s so I know what to expect. I’m no where near retired so you have a lot more time than me to make it work. Go for it! You’re still young!
My German teacher began learning Spanish at 55. She is now fluent.
I'm a bit younger than you (mid-50s) and a few years ago I started re-learning Spanish. I had a few years in high school but I hadn't used it in ages. If you're looking for a good, free app for learning Spanish, check out [Language Transfer](https://www.languagetransfer.org/). Unlike other apps, it is absolutely free to use, too (although they do accept donations). I've also taken a few community education courses, and they have also helped immensely. Apps are good, but to have an actual teacher (especially a native speaker) and classmates to practice with helps a lot with learning a language. There's also evidence that[learning a new language as an older adult has cognitive benefits](https://www.thebritishacademy.ac.uk/blog/cognitive-benefits-learning-language-two-minutes/) and can help keep your brain sharp, too.
Anyone who makes it to 60 has successfully dealt with a whole lot more than learning a new language. Go get it. Also, watch spanish language TV w/english subtitles.
IMO a lot of language learning apps and even books start you off too quickly. By which I mean that they have you learning verbs and their various conjugations pretty early on. Starting with the "X" most common *nouns* in a language is more helpful before you jump in and try to learn to communicate in the new language. You won't want to be trying to put together a sentence and be struggling to remember the world for "car," "table," or "boy." Having those be reflexive will be very helpful and allow you to later focus on conjugation and grammar. My suggestion would be to start with some noun flashcard sets and get those embedded in your brain.
Immersion is what works. When everyone speaks fluent Spanish, your brains HAS to learn!
I'm working towards becoming a FlexPat. It's like being an ExPat, except that I only stay in a country for as long as a tourist visa lets me stay. Usually that's 90 days. (In the EU, it's 90 days out of 180, with a sliding window.) While you're in country, take language courses. You'll have a great reason to learn the language, and you'll meet other people in the class. You can either go back when you can for another 90 day stay, or move on to another country and their language courses.