Balyasnikova, Natalia, Markowski, Marianne ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4652-3168 and Vseteckova, Jitka (2025) Learning in the UN Decade of Healthy Ageing: insights from Canada and the UK. Journal of Global Ageing. ISSN 2976-7202 (Online) (In Press)

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Abstract

This paper explores how learning contributes to healthy ageing and reinforces learning as an important aspect of the sustainably successful ageing process. The paper begins with an analysis of the framework established by the UN Decade of Healthy Ageing, pinpointing the notable absence of learning as a crucial element of well-being in the later stages of life. It then explores the research in educational gerontology, specifically focusing on how learning has been conceptualised as a lifelong endeavour. Subsequently, the paper delves into three illustrative cases: a language learning program designed for older immigrants in Canada, an intergenerational somatic co-creation workshop, and a UK public educational campaign tailored to the multifaceted needs of ageing populations. This paper places the three multidisciplinary learning initiatives against the backdrop of the United Nations Decade of Healthy Ageing (United Nations, 2024b). The discussion reveals how each case contributes to the redefinition of healthy ageing, increased knowledge of age-related processes, confidence in self-management, and a wider range of lifestyle choices for healthy ageing. By integrating the concept of well-being into thinking about learning in later life, the paper showcases how the inclusive, participatory approach and co-production of tailored learning initiatives can powerfully contribute to healthy ageing across diverse groups. To conclude, the authors argue for expanding policy frameworks to include different learning contexts that reflect the diverse needs and experiences of older adults.

Item Type:	Article
Additional Information:	Available also in the Open University: https://oro.open.ac.uk/103055/
Uncontrolled Keywords:	healthy ageing, later life education, well-being, educational gerontology, learning, participatory approaches, co-production
Subjects:	R Medicine > R Medicine (General) R Medicine > RA Public aspects of medicine R Medicine > RA Public aspects of medicine > RA0421 Public health. Hygiene. Preventive Medicine
Faculty / School / Research Centre / Research Group:	Faculty of Education, Health & Human Sciences Faculty of Education, Health & Human Sciences > Institute for Lifecourse Development Faculty of Education, Health & Human Sciences > Institute for Lifecourse Development > Centre for Chronic Illness and Ageing Faculty of Education, Health & Human Sciences > Institute for Lifecourse Development > Centre for Professional Workforce Development Faculty of Education, Health & Human Sciences > School of Health Sciences (HEA)
Last Modified:	27 Mar 2025 15:45
URI:	http://gala.gre.ac.uk/id/eprint/50137

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