Training Older Adults for New Careers.

In this paper, the discussion concerns the trainig of older adults for work as child caregivers. Four questions are addressed: (1) Why is child care a work option for the older worker? (2) What is the target population of older persons interested in preparing for this field of work? (3) How can adult learner characteristics be integrated into a training program that prepares older persons for employment in child care? (4) What are the outcomes of a training program that prepares older persons for employment in child care? The training program discussed is a training model designed for low-income older persons that provides 90 hours of course work followed by subsidized 3-month, on-the-job training and subsequent placement as an unsubsidized child care aide. Outcomes of the training program were favorable. During the 10 weeks of training in each of six program cycles, there was 95 percent attendance. Of the 78 persons enrolled, 73 completed the training, received their certification, and attended graduation. Of the 73, a total of 47 continued to work in the child care field. (RH)