The role of informal (adult) education in the promotion of successful ageing

Abstract

Framed by a community-focused and ongoing, or lifelong, vision of education, this paper aims to demonstrate the importance of adult education in the promotion of successful ageing, based on an action research project at a Private Institution for Social Solidarity (Instituição Particular de Solidariedade Social) in Northern Portugal. The project involved a group of twenty-five retired and partially retired adults, aged fifty-six to seventy-five. Qualitative and hermeneutic interpretive research paradigms were considered to be the most appropriate for this project, while the preferred methodology was participatory action research, for its capacity to promote participation and engage the social actors involved. In light of the interests, needs and potential of the participants, the action took the form of three workshops: Computer Skills; Pedagogy & Healthy Living and a Topical workshop. These consisted of activities based on active, participative methodologies that foster effective, willing participation, providing opportunities for learning, socialising and recreation and transforming the daily lives of the participants. The project highlights the processes involved in educational intervention programmes for older adults and shows positive outcomes in terms of learning, interpersonal relationships, and improved wellbeing, signalling the urgent need for widespread third age educational provision as a means of promoting successful ageing.