The study by Paulo Silvestre, PhD in Education from CeiED revealed that learning plays a crucial role in maintaining good mental health and improving the quality of life in adults aged 55 and older.

The study, which involved a sample of 932 participants collected nationally, revealed that participants who were involved in formal educational activities (Higher Education) had higher levels of quality of life and better mental health, with the motivations for learning being the acquisition of knowledge, personal fulfillment and knowledge of new realities. Participants who were involved in non-formal learning (Senior University) showed higher levels of social participation. The main motivations for learning were leaving home, making friends, socializing, occupying free time and having access to a variety of activities.

Furthermore, the study highlights the relevance of learning in promoting autonomy, self-efficacy and combating social isolation. The results indicate that continuous engagement with learning plays an important role in maintaining cognitive and intellectual well-being, as well as physical, emotional and social well-being.

The study was developed within the scope of the doctorate in Education, defended on June 19, 2024, by researcher Paulo Silvestre, from the CeiED, and supervised by the Full Professor João Filipe Matos. This research was preceded by another study, which validated a Lifelong Learning scale. Validation was supported by the Research Support Foundation (FCT).

This study is innovative in focusing on how lifelong learning can act as a protective factor against mental health problems such as anxiety and depression. It also innovates by integrating and interconnecting social and psychological factors with learning. Basically, this research combines an interdisciplinary approach (education, psychology, sociology and health) allowing a comprehensive understanding of the needs and challenges of an aging population. The comparison between groups as diverse as Higher Education students (116), Senior University students (391) and the General Population (425) also reveals the unique nature of the research.

For scientific knowledge, this research offers new evidence on the importance of public policies that encourage the continuity of learning by adults, considering it a fundamental strategy not only for intellectual development, but also for promoting better levels of physical and mental health. mental and global well-being, revealing the importance of active citizens in society at older ages. The creation of accessible educational programs adapted to this age group can, therefore, have a direct influence on public health and social cohesion.

This study represents a significant advance in the field of healthy aging and public health, reinforcing the idea that education can be a powerful tool for improving the quality of life and emotional well-being of older adults. The results highlight the need for greater investment in inclusive educational programs, capable of creating healthy, resilient and connected communities. Regardless of objectives, expectations, values, beliefs, perceptions, contexts, needs, interests and responsibilities, it is never too late to learn.