A Qualitative Study on Why Older Adults May Be Reluctant to Participate in Learning Activities

Abstract

Maintaining the abilities and utilizing, even developing the potential of older adults is currently one of the important issues in an aged society, and participation in education is an important method to maintain and develop the abilities of older adults. Exploring the factors that discourage older adults from participating in learning activities is important in promoting their educational participation. Therefore, this paper focuses on understanding why older adults may be reluctant to participate in learning activities. This study utilized an interview approach to gain an in-depth understanding of the perspectives of older adults, with 24 participants involved in the study. The interview data was analysed using open coding, axial coding, and selective coding for qualitative data analysis and to draw conclusions. The results indicated that older adults may be reluctant to participate in education, which may be influenced by factors such as age, physical condition, education level, economic status, lifestyle, interpersonal relationships, transportation, and the types of courses available. According to the findings, two important issues regarding older adult education were identified: personal difficulties and curriculum structure. Based on the research results, this study provides suggestions for future reference in planning older adult education.