Expand STEM education for older adults

Mantsch et al discuss the expansion of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education for older adults. The US would greatly benefit from expanding educational opportunities in STEM for people of age 60 and up. By 2060 about 30% of the US population will be above the age of 60 and the percentage of adults between 18 and 64 will have declined. That raises questions about how society can sustain the workforce and current retirement systems. People of age 60 and up could be a resource, on either a paid or volunteer basis, that counterbalances the increasing shortage of younger people in the labor force. But to do that, they will need to place more emphasis on teaching and training for older adults. Older adults in the US who participate in formal educational offerings can choose from formats and programs at various types of places, including higher-education institutions, religious institutions, community organizations, nonprofit groups, and self-organized initiatives. Studies have shown that learning at older ages has a positive impact on physical health, self-confidence, social inclusion, independence, and cognitive ability.