POLITICAL ADVOCACY FOR OLDER ADULTS: A REVIEW OF EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES AND TECHNIQUES

Abstract

This article describes a growing number of educational activities that enable older persons to become more effective political advocates for aging‐related concerns. It suggests that through these activities older persons are learning a variety of political skills, including how to define and priority‐rank issues; assess the political climate surrounding an issue; develop appropriate strategies to affect political decision making; develop and maintain effective communication links among aging groups and other organizations; and obtain publicity for specific identified concerns. The article also emphasizes that a variety of methodologies are being employed in these activities — methodologies that range from role playing and mock legislative hearings to more traditional approaches such as lectures and audiovisual presentations.

In conclusion, the article suggests a number of areas for future educational research including an examination of the extent to which the older population is actually being reached through political educational activities and the effectiveness of current activities in producing informed, politically skilled individuals who have a demonstrated capability for effectively influencing political decisions. The article also points out a need for greater communication and collaboration among educational researchers, gerontologists, and political scientists in examining the role of education in the political socialization of older adults.