Older Australians love to learn

Continuing education has become a major interest for older Australians, with one in four over the age of 50, engaging in some form of education over the past 12 months.

The most popular subject – for one in five – was computers or technology, with other popular subjects including arts and crafts (9%), safety (7%), and languages (6%).

The research carried out for insurer Apia, found that half surveyed were enrolled for courses provided by a community based provider, with 18% studying through TAFE and 9% through a university.

Non-formal learning – structured learning that does not lead to a qualification – was more popular at 23%, compared with formal learning at 9%.

The over 50s learners said they were motivated by personal interest, self-development, and a desire to broaden knowledge.

The participation rate declined as age increased, with 31% of 50-54 year olds being involved, compared to 17% of people 65 and over.

Adult Learning Australia spokesperson, Julia Gane, said that “studies show that people who remain actively engaged through life long learning and participation in their communities, experience greater levels of general wellbeing, suffer less depression and illness and are less likely to get dementia”.