This book examines the unique characteristics of teaching foreign languages to senior learners. It discusses the potential age-related barriers and learning difficulties which may be encountered in senior foreign language education as well as solutions to overcome these challenges. The author describes the processes of human aging from different…

It is often stated that the physical properties of our universe are "fine tuned"--that is, they must be almost exactly as they are to make the development of intelligent life possible. The implications of this statement, called the "anthropic principle," have been widely discussed in a philosophical context, but the scientific basis for the…

Drawing from recent research, this paper attempts to refute some of the commonly held assumptions about the inevitable decline of intellect as part of the aging process and point to ways educators can expand educational opportunities for older adults. After exploring some of the myths and stereotypes about senile, disoriented, helpless, rigid,…

Research shows that elderly persons have innate capacities for musical development and that those capacities are maintained with age. Successful, quality musical experiences can be created to meet the broad interests of the elderly. (RM)

Reviews research literature published between 1957 and 1990 regarding the musical involvement of the elderly. Divides studies into works dealing with (1) musical aptitude, (2) musical preferences, (3) music programs for older adults, and (4) the aging voice. Cites the enormous and growing quantity and quality of research on the subject. Identifies…

The aged are generally identified by such criteria as chronological age, economic condition, physical appearance, psychological behavior, mental conditions, and social roles. While the present population of aged is characterized by lower educational and economic levels, it is anticipated that as the number of aged grows, the educational and…

This curriculum guide contains materials for a course that explores ways of improving the lives of older citizens and helping them cope with the rigors and pursuits of life. Section I discusses the development of community resource files at adult basic education (ABE) sites. Forms for each step are provided. Section II presents information on the…

Considers the unique cognitive and intellectual factors that influence the learning and education of older adults. Reviews research on patterns of intellectual and cognitive aging and the implications of patterns in attention, memory, information retrieval, and tolerance for interference in the development of cognitive training programs for older…

Reviews professional literature on developments in art education for older adults since 1980. Describes programs at the national, state, and local levels that emphasize either the crafts or fine arts approach to art education. Recommends programs that promote creative thinking and self-expression. (CFR)

Describes three workshops designed for an Elderhostel program whose audience is largely Americans of German descent and the grandparents of today's students. The workshop topics include an introduction to the German-American experience and German-American studies; German American customs, beliefs, and traditions; and German-American genealogy,…

As part of a sabbatical leave project undertaken during the 1989-90 academic year, a faculty member at Sir Sanford Fleming College in Petersborough, Ontario visited 13 two- and four-year colleges in the United States to gather information on services, courses, and programs available for older adults. This sabbatical report provides a profile of…

This manual was developed by the staff of the Read Aloud Programs for the Elderly of the Seattle Public Library. It is based on a year's experience of conducting read-aloud programs in nursing homes and is meant to be a guide for setting up similar programs in other library systems. The first half of the manual, addressed to program managers,…

Resulting from a project designed to demonstrate that entrepreneurship can be a realistic choice for persons aged 55 years and older, this instructor handbook offers assistance in preparing and teaching courses for older adults on starting a small business. Introductory remarks provide background on the project and explain the use of the guide.…

These two curriculum modules are self-contained units focusing on older women of color (primarily African-American) and rural minority elders. The modules were developed as a product of a Model Gerontology Career Development Program in Institutions of Higher Education in Rural Areas through a consortium of colleges, universities, and agencies…

This manual documents the development and operational stages of the Seniors Teaching Seniors (STS) training project of the Brookdale Institute on Aging and Adult Human Development. It is a practical guide for universities, colleges, community agencies, or consortia of agencies for replicating the training model. Both general guidelines and more…