Document Type

Article

Source Publication Title

International Journal of Aging and Human Development

First Page

363

Last Page

106

Abstract

Lifelong learning programs meet older adults’ educational needs and further support their health and well-being leading to more successful aging. In particular, university-based lifelong learning programs have provided older adults with opportunities to not only develop skills and knowledge but also expand new social networks with people of different ages. This study evaluated a university-based lifelong learning program, Program 60, to identify the relationships between participants’ experiences in the program and their quality of life. An online survey was employed, and 107 participants completed the self-report survey. The participants reported that classes helped increase their emotional satisfaction and that they enjoyed taking classes with younger students. Their experiences in the program reliably predicted psychological and social elements of their quality of life (p = .004 and p = .019, respectively). Study results provide helpful information for the development of lifelong learning programs that are responsive to the increasing demands of older adults. [This is a post-print of an article published by SAGE in International Journal of Aging and Human Development on September 28, 2016, available online: https://doi.org/10.1177/0091415016668352]

Disciplines

Social and Behavioral Sciences | Social Work

Publication Date

9-28-2016

Language

English

Available for download on Wednesday, January 01, 3000

Included in

Social Work Commons

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