Teaching Older Adults With Disabilities
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Older adults have many reasons for pursuing continued education. Some simply enjoy meeting new people and getting out of the house each day. Attending a learning center or school can give them an agenda, preventing boredom or depression that often occur with sedentary lifestyles. Working adults may wish to learn more about computers, business skills or other employment-related information. Since fewer people are retiring permanently, learning usually continues throughout people’s sixties and seventies. Most seniors who participate in education programs find that their new knowledge keeps them mentally sharp and gives them a reason to be proud.
Teaching adults can be challenging at times. Naturally, as we age, we experience changes in vision. We may no longer be able to focus on close objects, deal with the glare of a computer screen for long periods of time, read smaller 18-point font size, see colors as they actually are or see around physical barriers like tables. To teach adults, instructors should take all of these factors into consideration to reduce stress on their pupils. Hearing impairment is another challenge for adults of an older age. Some may learn to do some lip reading, but it’s always best if a loud voice can be used or have a clear microphone installed. Teachers should ensure a quiet setting with limited background noise, have all cell phones turned off and be careful not to distort their faces while speaking.
Additionally, up to 80% of the older adults in basic education programs have an adult learning disability, which hosts a new set of challenges. These adults may have writing, math and reading difficulties, poor handwriting, difficulty remembering things or adhering to a schedule, confusion about direction and limited social skills. To intervene with these adults, it’s advised that instructors work on basic skills remediation, subject-area tutoring, learning styles specifically designed for adult education, vocational exploration and survival skills training.
Understanding how older adults learn and retain information is crucial. For instance, older students learn best through practice and rehearsing new information. It helps if they can practice while the teaching is going on to receive constructive instructor feedback as well. Students should have guides like cue cards or handouts while going through their adult learning training, so they don’t feel lost or confused. Many seniors opt to take further education for the social aspect as well. They like meeting and interacting with others, so group exercises would be a good way to instruct older pupils.
Beth Kaminski is the co-author of Curing Your Anxiety And Panic Attacks which detailed treating panic disorder as well as tips on the various anxiety attack medication available at anxietydisordercure.com.
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