Literacy proficiency of older adults
International Journal of Educational Research, 39 (3):
253-263 (2003)Abstract
As a supplement to the International Adult Literacy Survey, the Netherlands
devoted special attention to the literacy proficiency of older adults.
A close look at the literacy skills of older adults and their use
in daily life is relevant because demographic developments, individualisation,
the position of older employees in the labour market and technological
innovations require an increasing level of literacy skills. Accordingly,
this chapter compares the literacy skills of older adults with other
age groups, and presents an analysis of the determinants of literacy
proficiency of older adults. In addition, results from follow-up
interviews conducted with 40 older adults who had low proficiency
scores in the Netherlands are presented. This includes (a) the kind
of problems they experience in daily life, (b) the kind of coping
strategies they develop, and (c) their attitude towards educational
interventions. The results show that the literacy proficiency of
older adults gives reasons for concern. They score significantly
lower than other age groups. However, many older adults develop practical
coping strategies, such as using social networks, assertiveness in
asking for help, etc. Yet, some of the coping strategies are vulnerable
because of societal changes such as rationalisation in industry and
public services.
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