The goal of this report is to document the workshop in San Diego and provide a comprehensive analysis of the ideas that were discussed, the recommendations that were made, and the programs and organizations at work to connect older adults with valuable lifelong learning activities. Download Report> (3.72 MB)

The fourth workshop of the Aging in Place Initiative was convened on March 12, 2008 in San Diego, California, drawing a large and diverse audience of community stakeholders and experts eager to discuss the future of lifelong learning opportunities for older adults in the community. The workshop, Enhancing Lifelong Learning: Developing a Livable San Diego County for All Ages, was hosted by San Diego County’s Aging and Independence Services (AIS), and showcased the county as a national model for its lifelong learning and Aging in Place strategies.

After remarks from a handful of local leaders and national hosts, workshop attendees were treated to a presentation by Professor Joaquin Anguera of San Diego State University, a leading expert on lifelong learning for older adults. Professor Anguera shared his wisdom about the goals, functions and benefits of lifelong learning, presenting the latest statistics and national research on the topic. The audience also enjoyed a light moment with two active local centenarians, William Gilmore and Laura Simon, who shared their insights on life, learning and the countless opportunities that San Diego has to offer.

Attendees then spent the majority of the workshop divided into four breakout groups, each devoted to a particular aspect of the lifelong learning issue. Discussions were facilitated by an AIS staff member who engaged participants on what the community is doing right and what could be improved to enhance lifelong learning for older adults. The four
breakout group topics were, “Retraining for Work”; “Volunteerism, Civic Engagement, and Personal Enrichment”; “Learning to Advocate for Health and Wellbeing”; and “Improving Access to Learning and Information.” Detailed notes taken by AIS staff of the conversations that occurred in each of the breakout groups can be found in the Appendix on p. 21.

To help set the stage for the lifelong learning discussions that took place in San Diego, the following “Backgrounder” section (p. 3) provides demographic and other information about San Diego County.

Critical findings and analysis from the workshop are found in the section,“Passing the Test: Aging in Place Strategies for Lifelong Learning” (p. 5). This section provides a thorough introduction to the lifelong learning issue and then focuses on the key points and recommendations that emerged from the small breakout groups at the workshop, along with strategies and programs that are being tried and tested in communities throughout the country.

San Diego is home to a number of nationally-recognized programs and strategies that promote lifelong learning and make the community more livable for all. A listing and description of these programs and others from around the country is found in the “Aging Friendly Innovations: Best Practices” section (p. 16). Download Report> (3.72 MB)