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Although much is known about many aspects of lifelong learning-the adult learner, the learning process, programs, policies and learning environments-little research was uncovered about the older adults who serve as peer educators in lifelong learning programs, and no published research was found about peer educators of Institute for Learning in Retirement (ILRs) study groups. This exploratory, descriptive study seeks to address this gap by investigating the characteristics, activities and concerns of 76 peer educators in 33 ILRs affiliated with the Elderhostel Institute Network. Five areas are considered: (1) the background of peer educators; (2) the characteristics of their study groups; (3) the motivations and rewards of peer educators; (4) the training that peer educators acquire; and (5) the teaching-learning experience of peer educators. The outcomes of this study provide an initial understanding of peer educators in Institutes for Learning in Retirement and a foundation for advancing the development and growth of lifelong learning programs for older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This study investigates the current status of medical school and nursing school education in disease prevention, health promotion, and aging. The study population was comprised of 124 accredited U.S. medical schools and 131 nursing programs. Data collected from course catalogues and questionnaire suggests that thoughtful planning of curricula in the areas of disease prevention, health promotion, and aging would enrich present education and provide physicians and nurses with expanded capabilities to address present and future health care needs of the elderly. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

No abstract available for this article. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]