How Does Participation in Formal Education or Learning for Older People Affect Wellbeing and Cognition? A Systematic Literature Review and Meta-Analysis

Objective: To determine the effect of later-life formal education or learning on quality of life (QOL), wellbeing, mood, and cognition. Methods: A systematic literature review of interventional clinical trials and observational studies was conducted for adults aged ≥55 years who had undertaken formal education or learning programs. Outcome measures included physical activity, happiness, affective and behavioral symptoms, cognitive function, and QOL. Bias was assessed using funnel plots, Egger’s test, and leave1out analysis. Results: From 32 studies identified, we showed qualitative increases in cognitive function, life satisfaction, and self-confidence associated with learning. A meta-analysis revealed a significant pooled mean difference in MMSE scores (0.40, 95% confidence intervals = [0.12, 0.67]). Although there was a low risk of publication bias there was a high risk of sampling bias. Conclusion: Participation in formal education or learning contributed to increased wellbeing, QOL, healthy cognitive function, self-dependency, and a sense of belonging in older adults.