Priorities and Prospects for a Lifelong Learning Society: Increasing Diversification and Sphistication
Chapter 3. The Future of Lifelong Learning
Section 1. Responding to the Diversification of Learning Needs
5. Learning in an Aging Society
Japanese society will age significantly in the early twenty-first century. A variety of learning activities are needed to educate people to prepare for and live in an aging society. The aging of society is not simply an issue for the elderly. It affects every citizen. It is necessary to promote learning activities to enable the entire nation to understand better the social factors behind the rapid aging process; the implications for social insurance, including pensions and medical care; the various issues involved in nursing care and other forms of welfare; and mental and physical health in old age. There is also a need for opportunities to learn about life planning for old age in order to facilitate the transition from employment to retirement, especially for men. In addition, it is necessary to enhance learning systems that enable people to build friendships outside the workplace, as members of their communities, through involvement in hobbies, general cultivation, sports, and other activities. Another priority is the promotion of educational activities that prepare people for retirement. The elderly need more learning opportunities. Learning enhances life and helps the elderly play an active role in the community through volunteer activities and in other ways.
