A pilot study of the educational interests of older people found that these were as diverse as those in any other age group and ranged from computers to the environment, languages, the Internet, travel and literature.
The study of the needs of people aged 55 and over called for research in both the Midland and Western Health Board regions and speaking to older people themselves and to the providers of educational services.
Commissioned by the organisation, Age and Opportunity, in collaboration with the Marino Institute of Education, the report was published last week at the Midland Health Board headquarters by the Minister for Health, Mr Cowen.
Its three main objectives were to understand the educational needs and interests of a wide cross-section of people and identify the level of their input in facilitating their own learning.
Finally, it set out to understand the attitudes and perceptions of providers of education in these regions in relation to the learning needs of people aged 55 and over.
A key finding was that a person's age did not appear to affect the level of involvement in education, whereas socio-economic status, health, access to transportation and residential location seemed to impinge significantly on participation levels.
The report recommended that providers should consider ways in which they can expand their services to cater for older people and that further research be conducted to understand better the variations in participation among the elderly so they can be facilitated.
It also pointed out that if educational opportunities are perceived to be designed mainly for younger people, for those seeking employment or for qualifications, then a person over 55 will be less likely to consider it.
It recommended that providers take account of the needs and interests of the over-55s, and the importance of combining the social aspect with the actual content of educational courses should be taken into account in designing and delivering learning activities.
The researchers also said inadequate transportation was a major stumbling block to many elderly people taking part in education. They recommended that addressing this problem be a priority among relevant Government Departments.
Among other recommendations was that the Government make a commitment in policy to address the educational needs of people aged 55 and over by setting priorities in Government Departments, using existing resources, facilities and structures.
The author of the study, Mr Scott Boldt, of the Marino Institute of Education, said the study offered clear directions for policymakers and programme-developers because it drew on the experience and insights of people aged 55 years and over.