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The purpose of this study is to explore recognition of the importance of later-life planning and practice of later-life preparation by individuals from different generations. The study utilizes the Computer-Assisted Telephone Interview (CATI) method, in combination with a later-life planning questionnaire, to investigate adults (over 20 years old) across 25 counties and cities in Taiwan. The research design employed proportional stratified random sampling, and it received 1071 valid samples. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, one-way ANOVA, and logistic regression. Five findings stand out: First, later-life planning can be categorized into five domains: physical health, psychological adjustment, social relationships, financial management, and leisure life. Second, the subjects showed their recognition of the importance of later-life planning, especially with respect to physical health. Third, their preparations primarily took the form of following a balanced diet, maintaining a good mood, saving money, maintaining good relationships with family, and planning adequate leisure activities. Fourth, the results show intergenerational differences in recognition of the importance of later-life planning. Fifth, recognition of the importance of later-life planning effectively predicts one's practice of later-life preparation. Policy suggestions are offered for governmental and educational institutions dealing with older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since 2008, Taiwan's Ministry of Education has sponsored a number of short-term residential educational programs aimed at senior citizens and administered by local colleges and universities. In 2009, the Ministry of Education named a project the Elderhostel Program (notwithstanding the lack of involvement by the United States organization, which owns the English name as a trademark), and commissioned 28 colleges and universities to provide five-day residential educational programs to senior citizens age 55 or over. The present study analyzes the results of the 2009 Elderhostel Program. A total of 560 questionnaires were sent to the 28 schools, each of which randomly selected 20 participants to be respondents. A total of 380 of the questionnaires were returned, and 365 (or 65%) were selected. Three conclusions were drawn from the present study: (a) in general, participants were satisfied with the programs they had attended; (b) most were willing to participate in similar programs in the future; and (c) most report being happier after the programs. Based on these findings, suggestions for the Ministry of Education, colleges and universities, educators, organizers, and policy-makers who work with senior citizens are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]