1 August 2008 - Over-50s show there’s more to learning than increasing your earnings
You’re never too old to learn something new.
According to new research¹ from insurer Apia, one in four Aussies over the age of 50 has participated in some form of education in the past twelve months, proving they are not only able, but very willing to learn new things.
Apia Executive Manager Geoff Keogh said over-50s in Australia are keen to continue educating themselves and seeking new experiences, “Older Australians recognise the advantages of life-long learning that go beyond increasing their earning power,” said Mr Keogh.
“Our research confirms that for three out of five over-50s, their reason for learning is not work related. Instead, they are motivated by personal interest (13%), self-development (8%), and a desire to broaden their knowledge (14%).”
Adult Learning Australia spokesperson Julia Gane said that continued education later in life has a number of social and health-related benefits.
“Studies show that people who remain actively engaged through life-long learning and participation in their communities, experience greater levels of general well-being, suffer less depression and illness and are less likely to get dementia.”
“Positive ageing places far less demand on health and welfare services which are under great pressure due to the ageing population. Life-long learners cope better with change and are better able to develop resilience and knowledge to enable them to manage the ageing process effectively and productively,” said Ms Gane.
The seniors surveyed studied a wide range of subjects reflecting varied interests including gardening, economics, parenting and literature. However, the research revealed one in five older learners studied computers or technology, making it the most popular subject for over-50s. Other popular subjects included arts and crafts (9%), safety (7%) and languages (6%).
“Although they have not grown up using computers, over-50s see them as important for their ongoing education and are increasingly embracing technology as a tool for keeping in touch with family, friends and community events,” said Mr Keogh.
“Retiring, or reducing working hours to part-time is viewed as the beginning of the next adventure in life. Learning new things and meeting people with similar interests through education is a valuable and exciting part of that journey.”
Benefits of life-long learning:
- A sense of belonging
- Maintaining better health
- Improved Self esteem
- Keeps the brain active
- Social benefits
Other interesting statistics about over-50s learning, from Apia’s research:
- The participation rate in learning declines as age increases. Highest participation rate is observed amongst the 50-54 year olds (31%) and lowest amongst the 65+ (17%)
- More than half of those who took part in learning were enrolled for courses provided by a community based provider with others studying through a Tafe (18%) or a University (9%)
- Non-formal learning (structured learning that doesn’t lead to a qualification) is more popular (23%) than formal learning (8%)
- Learning participation rate is substantially higher in WA (37%) relative to other states.
- Tasmanians are most likely to go to TAFE
¹ Newspoll Research, July 2008
For more information on adult education, please visit: Adult Learning Australia
For further information or to arrange an interview, contact Jacqui Hickman, Hill & Knowlton, on 02 9286 1271 or 0410 190 542.
Media Contacts:
Apia
Sonia Longden
Apia Corporate Affairs
0421 165 650
Adult Learning Australia
Julia Gane
Communications Manager
02
6215 9503 / 0418 617142
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