Learning transforms lives in care settings Thursday, February 25, 2010 - 17:00

Resource materials were launched at an event on Wednesday, 24 February 2010 to highlight the benefits that learning has on older people's health, confidence and quality of life in care settings. This marked the final stage of the BIS Learning Revolution project - Enhancing Informal Adult Learning for Older People in Care Settings.

The launch event - held at Central Hall, Westminster - was hosted by Baroness Estelle Morris, with an address from Kevin Brennan MP, Minister of State at BIS. The materials available online and in hard copy - for care managers, education providers and local authorities - will give practical advice and support in order to bring more learning into care settings.

The Government committed to widening learning opportunities in day care, residential care and supporting housing when it published The Learning Revolution in 2009. This highlights the fact that England's population is ageing and care services need to be more adept at providing enjoyable and stimulating activities for this group.

Research by NIACE for the Interim Report for this project, showed how learning can reduce isolation; improve both physical and mental health; reduce dependence on medication; improve recovery rates; reduce dependency on others and lead to a greater enjoyment of life which gives residents something to look forward to.

Baroness Estelle Morris, said:

"When we talk about 'education for all' that includes those in care settings as well. This group of people benefit from learning just as much as any other group and there is good evidence that it improves their well-being as well as being something they enjoy. We have to be more ambitious and the materials being launched today will raise our sights and make more of us see what is possible."

Kevin Brennan, Minister for Further Education, Skills, Apprenticeships and Consumer Affairs, said:

"Using these new resources can make a big difference for older people who may think learning just isn't for them; they bring with them new opportunities for fun and a whole new lease of life."

"People are now staying active for longer, both physically and mentally. This means it is important to keep on learning later in life. A recent report from the Government Office for Science echoes this in recommending people continue learning, connect with others, take notice, stay active and give - all results of informal learning and part of the great work we see BIS and NIACE doing with older learners from all walks of life."

Using these new resources can make a big difference for older people who may think learning just isn't for them; they bring with them new opportunities for fun and a whole new lease of life.

Kevin Brennan, Minister for Further Education, Skills, Apprenticeships and Consumer Affairs

Fiona Aldridge, NIACE Programme Director, Research, said:

"The impact of people living longer than ever before will be huge. The number of people reaching the 85 is likely to double by 2026. For too many people this means they will be living with health conditions that reduce their quality of life, for even longer. The cost to our health budgets will be enormous and a huge strain on the economy."

"Regardless of disabilities or differences in ability, all older people in care settings should have the opportunity to take part in learning activities, to stimulate them, help them acquire new skills and to share ones they already have with others. The research we, and others, have done, illustrates the multiple positive benefits learning can have on residents and staff. Today's launch is a significant moment in increasing and improving learning opportunities for older people in care."