Adult Education in China: Exploring the Lifelong Learning Experience of Older Adults in Beijing

This research examines the role of adult and lifelong learning in facilitating successful aging among Chinese older adults. A life history research is adopted to conduct the study. By analyzing narratives of research participants’ learning stories, the study explores the provision of lifelong learning programs, Chinese perspectives on successful aging, and contributions of lifelong learning to successful aging and active citizenship among Chinese retired older adults. The findings show that the Chinese perspective on successful aging is closely connected to Chinese culture and traditions. Learning contributes to successful aging by bringing out older adults who are healthier and more independent, open‐minded, and socially active. The rich descriptions of historical and political events, Chinese traditions, moralities, and social values contribute to the understanding of Chinese older adults’ pursuit of lifelong learning and perspectives on successful aging. The detailed discussion of the motives and activities of older adults volunteering advances our extant knowledge about Chinese older adults’ volunteerism. China faces an aging population and adult and lifelong learning contributes to successful aging by bringing out older adults who are healthier and more socially active.