Contents of the third age university in russia: prospects of development

Abstract

This article offers an analysis of the work of the Third Age Universities in Germany and Russia, in particular, the content aspect of their educational programs. The aim of this social institution is to improve the life quality of the elderly. The article identifies the problems that arose due to outdated approaches to solving this issue. In Russia these problems are the interdepartmental disunity of institutions, insufficient awareness of the training possibilities for third-aged people, absence of professional direction in education and insufficient consideration of the elderly peculiarities when drawing up educational programs. Well-planned content of education at the Third Age University solves an important social task, helping the elderly to navigate in modern life, adequately respond to changes taking place in society and meet the needs for communication, exchange of experience and self-realization. The result of this work presented is the elaboration of a measure system to develop the content aspect of the U3A in Russia that takes into account the needs and interests of the elderly, the needs of society and the experience of a U3A in Germany.