Learning needs in healthy and active aging according to key stakeholders: A multinational survey

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Public Health
• Educational Program Development

Background:

• Population aging presents challenges and opportunities, necessitating professionals skilled in age-related knowledge.
• Existing frameworks for healthy and active aging require specialized training programs.
• A Master's degree in Active Aging is under development to address this educational gap.

Purpose of the Study:

• To consult prospective students, employers, older adults, and academics on essential knowledge areas for a new Master's in Active Aging program.
• To identify and prioritize learning needs across diverse stakeholder groups.
• To inform curriculum design for effective training in active aging and age-friendly societies.

Main Methods:

• An anonymous online survey was distributed to stakeholders across six European countries (Ireland, Slovenia, Austria, Portugal, Finland, Greece).
• Participants ranked the importance of 14 knowledge areas and associated topics.
• Multivariate regression modeling analyzed the influence of participant characteristics on knowledge area preferences.

Main Results:

• Health promotion (80%), psychology (73%), and social inclusion and engagement (71%) were identified as the most critical knowledge areas by all stakeholders.
• Healthcare-oriented students expressed higher interest in aging physiology, social aspects, and the physical environment.
• Geographical variations in topic enthusiasm were observed, with Western European countries showing greater overall interest.

Conclusions:

• This learning needs analysis offers valuable multi-stakeholder insights into curriculum priorities for active aging education.
• The findings will guide the development of a Master's program that addresses the demand for skilled professionals in age-friendly societies.
• Understanding stakeholder preferences ensures the relevance and effectiveness of educational initiatives supporting healthy and active aging.