Lifelong learning towards healthy ageing in primary care

Abstract

Adult education programmes, in particular those targeting health issues, are deemed vital. This is in view of the rapidly ageing population worldwide and the adoption of the innovative approaches that clients need to adopt so as to proactively take care of their health. Day centres in Malta have long been engaged in health promotional programmes. However it was deemed essential so as to evaluate the extent the approaches and skills indicated in the programme were adopted by the client as a follow-up of the programme at a later stage. The underlying aim is to improve their lifestyle quality and maintain active ageing. The research explored academic literature published both overseas and likewise generated within the Maltese context. The host of issues encompasses a wide spectrum ranging from the rationales interlinking adult education to lifelong learning. Complementary areas of interest embrace transformative learning, client empowerment together with the identification of actual and potential barriers in the instruction process. The literature review also ventured to explore the manner, knowledge, experience, technical and human resources which could be effectively adopted so as to ensure constructive commitment on the part of all the stake holders – Day coordinators, instructors and clients. A qualitative methodology was adopted and an interview was addressed to the Day Centre coordinator. At a later stage the clients were also interviewed before and after participating in a health care promotion programme. The outcomes of these interviews were evaluated later. This was deemed essential so as to identify common and distinct approaches adopted in relation to the perspectives highlighted in the literature review. The research revealed that lifelong learning focusing on primary care is gaining ground among members of the older adults segment since it tackles the clients’ health needs, boosts their autonomy and facilitates the proactive management of their personal health. However the successful outcomes of the programmes are highly dependent on the nature of the interactive methods adopted. Apart from maintaining a culture of engagement, there is still sufficient space for critical reflection, motivation, team working reinforced by synergistic outcomes.