Demographics point to a rapid increase in the number of older adults in
many countries. This situation has been debated primarily from the
perspective of an unrealistically optimistic or unduly pessimistic view of the
future, with few attempts to suggest alternatives. This study proposes a
radical theory based on the premise that an opportune time in history exists
for older adults to contribute to social and political change through the
formation of a new social movement. The analysis addresses the question of
whether education in some form could act as an agency or catalyst to initiate
an organised social movement. It examines the relevant literature, the
development of social movements in the past, the difficulties to be overcome
in initiating an organised movement, and answers questions relating to
overcoming inertia, sectional interests, generating leadership and developing
innovative and imaginative educative processes.
The empirical research for this study was based on interviews with leaders of
organisations involved with older adults and focuses on drawing conclusions
from the research in relation to the research question. The study counters the
medical and economic approach to ageing on which much government policy
and, to a large extent, public attitudes have been formed
The book is directed to professionals in higher and further education, and
those who teach in the general field of adult education. It is also addressed
to politicians,political theorists, editors and journalists and those who object
to ageist and stereotypical attitudes towards older adults.