Older Adults in Lifelong Learning: Participation and Successful Aging

Abstract

This article examines the relationship between the participation of older adult learners in educational activities and successful aging. In partnership with seniors’ organizations, focus-group interviews were conducted on seniors’ involvement in learning and their perceptions of its influence on successful aging. Successful aging is defined in terms of health, life satisfaction and happiness, and physical and cognitive functioning (Menec, 2003). The study was exploratory, but the results suggest that participation in educational activities has positive effects on successful aging and potentially contributes to both physical and psychological well-being. Connections are also made to activity-theory studies (Menec, 2003), lifespan theory (Baltes, 1997; Heckhausen & Schulz, 1995), and adult education studies on older adults (AARP Survey on Lifelong Learning, 2000; Thompson & Foth, 2002; Withnall, 2002). The authors conclude by suggesting a framework for thinking about older adults’ participation in learning activities and successful aging.

Lifelong learning and library programming for third agers

“…Another Canadian study of 696 adults over age 60 participating in continuing programs found the top reasons given for attending were to keep mentally active and to learn something for the joy of learning (Narushima et al , 2013). A focus group of 38 Canadian older adults found the top three reasons for participating in continuing education were learning for the sake of learning, to socialize and to achieve a goal (Sloane-Seale and Kops, 2008).…”

“…In a study of age 50+ adults from England, Jenkins (2011) found that music, arts and evening class participation were associated with improved wellbeing, life satisfaction and quality of life, while exercise classes and formal education did not have these benefits. Sloane-Seale and Kops (2008) concluded that participating in learning activities contributed to successful aging and had physical and psychological benefits. In addition, Merriam and Kee (2014) make a case for how lifelong learning for older adults promotes community wellbeing.…”

Untitled

“…Participation is one of the pillars of Active Ageing. Efforts to encourage participation normally begin with the removal of barriers and provision of opportunities (Sloane-Seale & Kops, 2008). This article explores and aims to contribute to the knowledge of senior citizen learners by understanding their motivation and educational experience.…”

Computer Education and Third Age Universities: A Systematic Review

“…The benefits of active aging are known: seniors with high participation in leisure activities may benefit from a slower cognitive and functional decline [26]. The participation of older adult students in educational activities contributes to successful aging (activity, adaptability, and attitude) and to connectivity factors (spiritual, social, personal, and future) [27]. The role of senior universities is undeniable, generally open to all in the third age, which is defined not by a certain age, but by a period of life in which full-time employment has ended [28], recognizing the fact that older people are a diverse group with different needs, abilities, backgrounds, and experiences [29].…”