Introduction

This chapter focuses on memory changes in older people, and a study of learning aptitude in later life. The General Editors drew attention to the lack of specialized attention which has been paid to the study of psychology and learning aptitude in later life. It is surprising that this is so, because during the last quarter of a century, the 'education for older adults movement' has developed into an international phenomenon. The reasons for this are almost entirely demographic. People are living longer and thus the proportion of the total population classified as 'elderly', 'older', 'senior' is increasing. Life expectancy has risen by seven to ten years over the past three decades and it is estimated that by the year 2025, 32.9 per cent of the population in the United Kingdom will be aged over 55, compared with 26.2 per cent in 1980. The implications of this in relation to studies of learning aptitude are profound.