To Örebro University

Previous studies have demonstrated that there is a positive relationship between learning activities and health in general and that learning has a positive impact on the psychological, mental and social aspects of health. Despite this, there are still unanswered questions about the relationship between and the concepts of health and learning. The aim of this review has been to map and synthesise research on the relationship between learning and health for older adults in organised or institutionalised education using a conceptual analysis model. The results demonstrate that intrinsic values like learning for its own sake and the joy of learning are emphasised. Moreover, individual factors of health are emphasised and several different concepts are used to explain health. In the final synthesis, four logics are identified concerning the relationship between learning and health: Learning as Quality of Life, Learning as Social Networks, Learning as a Means for Coping and Learning as a Means for Reducing Risk. In conclusion, there is a need for a more in-depth understanding of the ontological and epistemological grounds for learning and health in the field in order to strengthen the cumulative knowledge production about the relationship between older adults learning and health.

This study aims to acquire more knowledge about the meaning of intrinsic values in organisedpost-work non-formal educational activities for older adults. Observations andfocus group interviews were conducted at a senior university in Sweden. John Dewey’sconcept of experience and theory of value are used to facilitate a deeper understandingof the intrinsic values that were identified. The results of the study demonstrate whatintrinsic values in education for older adults can be, as well as how they are experienced.Several intrinsic values were identified: (i) new insights and widened perspectives, (ii)the reflective process, (iii) enrichment, (iv) meaningfulness, (v) enjoyment, (vi)peacefulness, (vii) existential awareness, (viii) relational support and (ix) sense ofcommunity. The results further reveal how the values of education are experienced in theinteractions and relations between older individuals and the social environment in theongoing education and that the activities themselves are valued by the participants.