Promoting age friendly universities which are sustainable and open to all: a new challenge for the academy?

Abstract

The educational needs and interests of older adults have been largely overlooked by universities. Traditionally, universities have geared their curriculum and recruitment drive towards younger adults, yet the number of older adults, as a proportion of the total population, is growing. Many of these older adults want to remain in work longer whether in a paid or voluntary capacity. This article argues that universities have the potential to play a major role in innovation through increasing and widening participation of older adults. It outlines an approach, the Age Friendly University (AFU) which highlights ten principles that offer a possible guide for innovation and institutional change. The integration of AFU's mission and principles is reflected in cases from Ireland and the UK. It argues the AFU has the potential to bring social, personal and economic benefits to older adults and universities alike.