College Education In The Over 50 Crowd Analysis

“College Education”. These words are synonymous with the age group of 18-25, and for many, the doorway to a young adult’s life to create a prosperous future. Today, another age group is rekindling college education. That age group is known as the over 50 crowd. The group not only belongs to returning college graduates, but to first time students. The beneficial effects may be unknown to many, even the attendees, but the statistics are now supporting a very positive outlook on life in more ways than ever imagined. Education in the over 50 crowd is beneficial in diminishing Alzheimer’s symptoms along with providing a brighter outlook for employment and retirement. The downside to education could be the expense.
Furthering your education, whether with a Bachelor or a Masters degree in midlife could prove to be not only a smart career move, but help prolong life in a unique and healthy way. Alzheimer’s, a neurodegenerative disorder and a common form of dementia has symptoms …show more content…
According to The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), a 17% increase of college students between the ages of 50 to 64 occurred between 2007 and 2009 (Home & Family Finance, 2014 para. 4). In 2008, this increase created an innovative program by the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) called the Plus 50 Initiative. The program was developed to engage the over 50-age group and prepare these learners for new careers (American Association of Community Colleges, 2014). In a November 2013 evaluation report from American Association of Community Colleges (2014), the Plus 50 program exceeded their goals by serving 54 percent more students in 3 years and helped 50 percent more students complete their degrees or certificates. These students improved their levels of employability and furthered the careers of this age