Learning for older people in care settings Wednesday, October 6, 2010 - 13:27

This research project builds on an initial investigation by NIACE to improve informal learning opportunities for older people in care settings.

The first research project found that organisations and individuals involved in the provision of learning opportunities in care settings are able to cite many examples of the positive impact that learning has made to the health and well being of older adults. This has included reductions in incontinence materials and medication, like anti-depressants and sleeping pills. There are also claims of a reduction in staff turnover and absenteeism.

However, there is a lack of rigorous research evidence to support these claims. The idea that learning brings savings in medical and care costs, requires a more robust evidence base to help make its acceptance more universal.

Over the next few months, NIACE will begin to build an evidence base by undertaking a research project to address this challenge. Through the development and implementation of research tools, in 9 Local Authority settings, this project will seek to identify the potential cost savings and efficiencies gained through the introduction of adult learning opportunities for older people in care settings.

NIACE will:

• develop a set of research tools and provide support for Local Authorities to implement them;
• collate the data and bring together all participating Local Authorities in a seminar to discuss the process, findings and implications of the research; and
• produce guidance for all Local Authorities on the benefits of learning for older people in care settings.

Dr. Fiona Aldridge, Head of Research at NIACE, said:

"We are looking for Local Authorities who have a good cross-departmental working between social care and adult learning departments and who already provide learning opportunities for older people in care settings, to work with us as part of this research project."

"This project will help identify and demonstrate the value of the work that's currently happening in this area. It will help define the contribution of providing learning in care settings to the health sector and the wider Local Authority, including potential cost savings to budgets."

The project is unable to provide funding for participating Local Authorities, although expenses to attend the seminar will be covered. Participating authorities will also be offered one day of strategic consultancy for senior managers/elected members.

More information about the project and its resources for Local Authorities and for learning providers can be found here.

To express an interest in taking part, please email Fiona.Aldridge@niace.org.uk.