Generativity in Older Age: A Challenge for Universities of the Third Age (U3A)

Abstract

This paper discusses the ways in which university programs for older people should change to cater to the interests and concerns of generative older people. We describe university programs offered at present, underlining their emphasis on personal growth and on learning for the sake of learning. We argue that these programs are not entirely suitable for generative older people, who are eager to contribute to the social contexts in which they participate. The paper suggests that more instrumental, intergenerational, practical, and academically challenging programs are required to satisfy the training needs of generative older people.

Acknowledgments

The preparation of this manuscript was supported by the Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation, grant PSI2009-10966.