Older Adults in Adult Learning 1989–2020: A Literature Review

Abstract

Older adults are a growing population. This article reviews the literature on older adults in Adult Learning from its inception in 1989 through 2020. Topics focus primarily on program reports, programmatic learning needs, personal reflections, and classroom methods. Key findings include that “older adult” is not well-defined and adults are portrayed as active learners. In addition, the demographics of authors and study participants are discussed. Findings have implications for researchers and practitioners.