A Model of Active Ageing Through Elder Learning: The Elder Academy Network in Hong Kong

Abstract

This article presents the Elder Academy (EA) Network as the policy and practice in promoting active ageing through elder learning in Hong Kong. First, the article examines how the change in demographics and the prevalent trend of an ageing population have propelled the government in Hong Kong to tackle issues and challenges brought about by an increasing proportion of the elderly population. Second, the political and cultural contexts are critically discussed to identify the rationale underlying the successive implementation of a series of major reforms within a short time in areas including elderly welfare by the postcolonial Hong Kong government. Third, the Elder Academy Network is introduced to provide a model of cross-sectoral collaboration in the provision of elder learning involving the government as coordinator working jointly with schools, service agencies, and universities to form a network of elder academies providing a myriad of learning opportunities for elders to pursue in their late-life years. Finally, the EA network is critiqued for its benefits and limitations, warranting a need for research and evaluation before the Hong Kong experience can be shared and the EA model of active ageing through elder learning can be emulated in places outside of Hong Kong.