A lifelong learning institute is an organized group of people over 50 years of age who meet frequently for college-level study just for its intellectual challenge and social enjoyment.[1][2] (Lifelong learning institute is a term used in the United States. For similar organizations outside the United States, see University of the Third Age). Unlike continuing education, career development is not an objective of a lifelong learning institute; no credit is earned from any sponsoring college or university.[1] Hundreds of thousands of people over 50 now participate in this intellectual endeavor which did not exist before 1962.[3]