Lifelong learning, welfare and mental well-being into older age: trends and policies in Europe

Citation

Field J (2011) Lifelong learning, welfare and mental well-being into older age: trends and policies in Europe. In: Boulton-Lewis G & Tam M (eds.) Active ageing, active learning: Issues and challenges. Education in the Asia-Pacific Region: Issues, Concerns and Prospects, 15. Dordrecht: Springer, pp. 11-20. http://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-94-007-2111-1_2

Abstract
The chapter reviews recent research into adult learning and mental well-being in later life, set against the context of demographic change in European societies. It notes that although there is considerable evidence of the beneficial effects of learning in later life, participation in adult learning declines steadily with age, and falls particularly steeply after retirement. The chapter concludes by identifying polilcies that promote active ageing through adult learning.

Keywords
lifelong learning; ageing society; well-being; mental health; older adults