Book Review: Lifelong Learning in Later Life: A Handbook on Older Adult Learning

Abstract

Reviews the book, Lifelong Learning in Later Life: A Handbook on Older Adult Learning by B. Findsen & M. Formosa (2011). This 'handbook' operationalizes the theoretical approaches to lifelong learning as seen through the eyes of a senior adult. This book is a must read for those who have returned to both learning and formal education in later life. The handbook, structured into three sections includes the necessary background to understand aging adult learning, the philosophical, sociological, and psychological problems that older adults face daily, why older adults participate, and how they cope with learning. Each section is represented by practical chapters that allow the reader to decide what to take away while not passing judgment on the multinational policies that are currently in place. One interesting note is that the chapters do not have to be read in sequence, for this handbook contains pseudo-isolated chapters that stand on their own merit. It is easy to read ahead, as the introduction gives the reader a brief preview of what to expect. It is also easy to return to previous items of interest and tie them to adult education principles. All but the first chapter present a coda that provides the reader with a brief. This book is not a how-to manual but a fresh outlook that enlightens the reader on what is happening with learning for the older population. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)