Senior Lifelong Learning: The Inspiring Story of Nola Ochs, the World’s Oldest College Graduate

Sean Smith
Sep 15
2 min read

A Story That Redefines Aging

When most people think about retirement years, they imagine slowing down and enjoying the quiet comforts of life. But for Nola Ochs, life after retirement was just the beginning of something extraordinary. At the age of 95, she walked across the stage as the world’s oldest college graduate, earning a bachelor’s degree in General Studies from Fort Hays State University in Kansas. This achievement was certified by Guinness World Records. Wikipedia+2CBS News+2

Nola’s story is more than a remarkable personal achievement—it’s a timeless reminder that Senior Lifelong Learning is not only possible but deeply enriching at any age.

The Journey Back to School

Nola didn’t follow the usual path of finishing college in her youth. She spent many years devoted to raising her family and working on the family farm. After her husband died in 1972, she gradually resumed her academic pursuits. She took courses at Dodge City Community College and other institutions, and eventually realized she was only about 30 credits away from a bachelor’s degree. Wikipedia+2fhsu.edu+2

In 2006 she moved nearly 100 miles to live on campus at Fort Hays State University to finish her degree. In May 2007, at age 95, she graduated with her granddaughter, Alexandra Ochs, achieving that long-held goal. fhsu.edu +2Wikipedia+2

Why Nola’s Story Matters

Nola’s journey highlights:

Age is not a barrier to new goals.
Learning enriches life at every stage.
Connection and purpose sustain mental and emotional well-being.
Legacy of inspiration for families and communities.

Her story was widely reported, for example in CBS News which noted her graduation and how she continued classes until age 100. CBS News Also, Fort Hays State University produced a feature remembering her impact and record-setting graduation. fhsu.edu

The Power of Senior Lifelong Learning

Research consistently shows that seniors who engage in lifelong learning tend to have:

Better cognitive health and memory retention
Higher self-esteem and more confidence
Increased feeling of purpose
Improved social relationships

These benefits mirror what Nola experienced—she didn’t just earn degrees; she stayed involved, active, and connected.

Carrying Nola’s Legacy Forward

Nola passed away in December 2016 at the age of 105, but her legacy continues. Her story urges us to:

View aging as an opportunity, not a limitation
Embrace curiosity and growth even in later years
Support older adults in pursuing their dreams

Supporting Seniors in Their Journey of Learning and Growth

At A Touch of Love Home Care, we believe in more than just caring for physical health. We honor the value of Senior Lifelong Learning—helping our clients explore new hobbies, continue education, or find ways to stay mentally active.

Because aging gracefully isn’t about slowing down—it’s about continuing to grow.