University education: a potential health promotion intervention for Australian baby boomers

Margaret Hardy; Mathew J Summers; Prudence M Millear; Florin I Oprescu

doi:10.1080/02601370.2019.1636892

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University education: a potential health promotion intervention for Australian baby boomers

Journal article

Peer reviewed

University education: a potential health promotion intervention for Australian baby boomers

Margaret Hardy, Mathew J Summers, Prudence M Millear and Florin I Oprescu

International Journal of Lifelong Education, Vol.38(6), pp.589-601

2019

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/02601370.2019.1636892

Appears in Thompson Institute Research Collection

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Abstract

aging

health benefits

later life study

Other Collaborations

Thompson Institute Special Collection

UniSC Diversity Area - Life Stages

It is forecast that ageing baby boomers will have a substantial impact on future health expenditure. The primary aim of this study is to explore the perceived health benefits of later life university study for baby boomers. An online survey of Australian baby boomers examined their beliefs regarding the health benefits of studying at university in later life and related barriers. Data from 261 respondents revealed the main benefits to be gained from later life university study were improved critical thinking and decision-making skills. The main motivators were personal fulfilment and mental or intellectual stimulation, and financial cost the most important barrier. The results from this study suggest that university study in later life should be considered as a health promotion intervention for older adults seeking mental/intellectual stimulation. Enhancement of cognitive function through such interventions may have significant positive impacts on health outcomes across short, medium and long-term timeframes.

Details

Title: University education: a potential health promotion intervention for Australian baby boomers
Authors: Margaret Hardy (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast - School of Health and Sport Sciences
Mathew J Summers (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast
Prudence M Millear (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast - School of Social Sciences
Florin I Oprescu (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast
Publication details: International Journal of Lifelong Education, Vol.38(6), pp.589-601
Publisher: Routledge
Date published: 2019
DOI: 10.1080/02601370.2019.1636892
ISSN: 0260-1370
Organisation Unit: School of Health; School of Social Sciences - Legacy; University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland; School of Health and Sport Sciences - Legacy; Thompson Institute; Engage Research Lab; School of Health - Psychology; School of Health and Behavioural Sciences - Legacy; School of Health - Public Health
Language: English
Record Identifier: 99450643002621
Output Type: Journal article

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