Extending Engagement with Life: Bidirectional Relations Between Lifelong Learning and Awareness of Age-Related Changes in Older Japanese Adults

Background This study extends the framework of Kaspar et al. (2022), who conceptualized “engagement with life” as a core component of successful aging, by focusing on lifelong learning as a culturally embedded form of social participation in Japan. Lifelong learning may not only enhance cognitive and emotional well-being but also shape self-perceptions of aging and health behaviors. Objective We examined the bidirectional associations among lifelong learning, awareness of age-related changes (AARC), and health-related functioning in older Japanese adults. Methods A six-month longitudinal online survey was conducted with 668 adults aged at least 70 years. Data were collected in July 2023 and December 2023. We asked them to rate their participation in lifelong learning activities, AARC gains and losses, instrumental activities of daily living (IADL), and physical activity using validated scales. We employed cross-lagged effects models that controlled for demographic covariates. Results Lifelong learning predicted increases in AARC gains and AARC gains predicted subsequent engagement in lifelong learning, indicating a bidirectional relationship. Positive perceptions of aging were associated with greater physical activity, whereas negative perceptions predicted a decline in IADL. Conclusions Lifelong learning serves as a culturally embedded form of engagement with life that fosters positive perceptions of aging and health-promoting behaviors. Expanding access to lifelong learning may be an effective strategy for promoting successful aging in Japan.