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With the rapid aging of the global population, interest in lifelong learning initiatives has increased, highlighting models such as the Universities of the Third Age. This study describes the development and implementation of a University of the Third Age program in Türkiye, and evaluates its impact on older adults’ quality of life, life satisfaction, and successful aging. The program was designed through a multiphase process involving needs assessment, program structure, curriculum development, community engagement, and registration. A quasi-experimental design was used with a 12-week educational intervention targeting older adults who voluntarily enrolled was used. Forty-four participants were recruited, with 37 completing the study. Preintervention (March 5, 2024) and postintervention (May 31, 2024) data were collected using the WHOQOL-BREF Scale, the Satisfaction with Life Scale, and the Successful Aging Scale. Data were analyzed with paired-sample t-tests. Following the intervention, statistically significant improvements were observed in the participants’ quality of life across the subdomains of physical health (p = .001), psychological well-being (p = .005), social relationships (p = .02), and environment (p < .001). Life satisfaction and successful aging scores also increased significantly (both p < .001). This study suggests that an interdisciplinary program that integrates lifelong learning with social participation – and actively involves older adults in the process – can positively affect aging outcomes. The findings support the integration of such programs into healthy aging policies, emphasizing older adults’ potential for continued growth and contribution to society.
Yıldırım et al. (Wed,) studied this question.