Evaluating the impact of lifelong education on older adults: A case study from Hong Kong

Evaluating the impact of lifelong education on older adults: A case study from Hong Kong

• Law, Vincent TS The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
• Yee, Hilary HL The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
• Ng, Tommy KC The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
• Fong, Ben YF The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

Journal of Adult & Continuing Education, 29(2), 643-658, 2023

SAGE Publications

2023

• Q Philosophy of Education, Educational System & School At Different Levels
  • QG Adult, Lifelong & Continuing Education
    • QGD Elder Education

Ageing Population Lifelong Education Older Adults Physical Health Psychological Health Social Health

• Hong Kong

• 1997.7 onwards

• Adult Education

In light of its low fertility rate and long life span, Hong Kong is facing the challenge of a rapidly ageing population. To foster successful ageing, learning throughout life regardless of age is promoted as lifelong learning. A total of 20 older adults who are studying the Diploma in Active Ageing at the School of Professional Education and Executive Development of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University participated in a questionnaire survey while 16 older adult students participated in individual in-depth interviews in the present study. The results show that those who have received both informal and formal learning opportunities experienced positive changes to their physical, psychological and social health. The participants reported that the current lifelong learning policy provides insufficient financial support and insufficient promotion of formal education for older adults. For older adults to pursue further education, there is a need to provide more generous subsidies and relax age eligibility restrictions. To sustain lifelong learning, both informal and formal education for older adults should be promoted equally in order to meet the diverse interests and ability of older learners. Copyright © 2023 SAGE Publications.

• English

Journal Articles

• 14779714

• 10.1177/14779714231156747

https://bibliography.lib.eduhk.hk/bibs/05fe4e5c

2024-04-09