Record numbers of Swedish retirees are joining Senioruniversitet, a university run by pensioners for pensioners, to combat loneliness and fuel their hunger for learning. Senioruniversitet works with Folkuniversitetet and has 30 branches nationwide offering lecture series, study circles, and courses on languages, politics, medicine, and architecture. The largest branch in Stockholm holds about 1,000 attendees each week for its popular Tuesday lectures, featuring topics like “The art of awarding Nobel prizes” and “Disinformation and AI – the threat we invented ourselves.” Inga Sanner, chair of Senioruniversitetet Stockholm, says, “Our membership is the highest ever,” with national events rising from 2,099 in 2023 with 161,932 participants to a projected 2,391 events and 177,024 participants this year. Gunnar Danielsson, secretary general of Folkuniversitetet, noted the joy in learning purely for pleasure in today’s work-focused world. However, government funding has fallen in recent years despite growing interest. Sanner, a retired history professor, highlights the “fantastic hunger for education” among older people and the group's important role beyond learning, impacting democracy and families. She said, “You are an example. Not just sitting rocking in a rocking chair, but you are out and want to learn more.” Volunteers like Susanne Abelin, 66, a former journalist, and Joachim Forsgren, 71, a retired physician, find meaning in their work and social interactions. Abelin said the courses help keep minds sharp and connect socially, while Forsgren sees volunteering as part of a “democracy project,” especially vital amid the flood of online disinformation. Senioruniversitetet is loved by many but faces challenges in attracting a more diverse membership. Still, it remains a vibrant hub where pensioners learn, share, and stay active in society.