Synopses & Reviews
This work examines the important role of learning in maintaining the health, quality of life, and longevity of older adults, and in providing opportunities for them to take on new roles in society. Based on extensive interviews with elderlearners and with learning services providers across the country, Elderlearners includes the results of the first comprehensive survey on the topic of adult learning in men and women over age 55. The authors provide key data on the sources, topics, and extent of the current learning activities of older adults, as well as on their preferred learning modes.
Review
Elderlearning is a valuable compendium of findings drawn from original research and a review of literature, as well as a treatise on the social and personal significance of learning as an antidote to the negative aspects of age....The sheer volume of demographic statistics presented is timely and valuable, strengthing the basis for long-term trends and implications in the field....The authors of Elderlearning are to be applauded for making the educational establishment aware that programs for older adults are going to be an important feature of higher education and that, demographics aside, there are personal and societal arguments favoring lifelong learning.Continuing Higher Education Review
Review
Elderlearning will be a valuable aid to anyone involved in developing or teaching programs designed to meet the needs of older adults, as well as to elderlearners themselves.Clarion
Description
Includes bibliographical references (p. [185]-194) and index.
About the Author
LOIS LAMDIN is a writer and consultant in adult education, prior learning assessment, and workforce training.MARY FUGATE is a private consultant in higher education and adult program development.
Table of Contents
Preface Elderlearning Survey Questionnaire
Living in the Age Age
Defining "Old" in the Age Age
Life Stage and Development Theory: Implications for Learning
Confounding the Stereotype: The Cognitive Abilities of Older Learners
Use It or Lose It
A Profile of Elderlearners
Older Adult Learning in Colleges and Universities
Other Sources of Formal Learning
Older Adults' Self-Directed Learning
Modes of Learning for Older Adults
Socially Constructive Aging: Work, Retirement, Volunteerism, and Leisure Activities
An Agenda for the Age Age
Appendixes
Bibliography
Index