Page 42 - IJPS-9-3

International Journal of
Population Studies The right to lifelong learning

in mind, a policy framework in compliance with the 2.3.1. Available data on the population aged
human right to education could be developed for lifelong 65–100 years (and over) from the Canadian Census
learning. The objective of the present study is to develop 2021 and related collections
a preliminary model framework of rights-based lifelong The policy framework requires the analysis of available
learning based on national statistics that would extend data to determine the size of the policy target group,
lifelong learning to the end of life.
the diversity of the population segment, the relative
2.2. Principles for a rights-based approach to distribution of needs and demands, the potential nature of
late-life learning the response, equity in provision and outcome compared
with other population groups, and the degree of defensible
Since learning is one of the universal rights, every individual legal compliance.
is entitled to it. It is inalienable, which means that once
granted to an individual, it cannot be extinguished or 2.3.1.1. Size and proportion of the population aged 65–100 years
removed due to age. As entitled individuals, they do The size and relative proportion of the population aged 65
not need to claim it or activate it. Strong evidence is that – 100 years is essential to plan for the target clientele to be
late-life learning improves economic, social, and civic served and to ensure fairness and equity relative to other
outcomes (AARP Research, 2022; Boulton-Lewis, 2010). groups since they all enjoy the same right. The provision
Therefore, the right to learning is strongly interrelated with of learning opportunities, however, has to be related to the
other rights. Since all individuals are equal under human priorities of their stage of life.
rights law, neglecting people’s late-life learning would
be considered discrimination due to age. Older persons There were 7 million Canadians aged 65–100 years,
could make free and autonomous decisions regarding compared to 6 million children under the age of 15 years. In
their learning and be entitled to meaningful societal 2020, 15.9% of the population was aged 0 to 14 years, 66.1%
participation and opportunities for contribution to other fell into the 15 to 64 age group, and 18.0% were 65 years
spheres of life, such as paid or unpaid work, civic activities, and over (Statistics Canada, 2021b).
and social engagement. Compliance with learning rights
by governments and education-related organizations 2.3.1.2. Age distribution of the population aged 65–100 years
will be a challenge because completely new learning Eligibility for a targeted policy will depend on the age
opportunities may have to be created for later life within distribution within this older population. There is a vast
these strict requirements. A rights-based approach should difference in the need and purpose for learning between 65
ensure access, relevance, and equity of lifelong learning year olds and 95 year olds. Further, they are likely the most
opportunities for all members of this population group, and diverse population group because of their varied work and
governments can be held accountable for such provision. learning backgrounds and because they develop additional
intersectionalities such as disability and changed economic
2.3. Data evidence for the policy framework status (including retirement) over decades of life. Living
Statistical data systems were set up decades ago, and the “century lives” is no longer rare. There were over 9500
general standard since then was to present aggregated centenarians living in Canada in 2021–a 16% increase
data on those 65 years and over since it was a minor from 2016. Centenarians represent 0.03% of the Canadian
proportion of the population. Due to population aging, population (Statistics Canada, 2022c). Table 1 presents the
this segment is now large and continues to grow. For the age distribution of the population aged 65–100 years and
first time, preliminary Canadian census 2021 data were over from the Canadian Census 2021.
used to provide a more comprehensive picture of the The data were also available by single years of age and
population aged 65–100 years. Although the granularity gender. Table 2 presents the data for the subsample of
and variables are not as rich as for other age groups, this Canadians aged 90–100 years. Single-years-of-age data
is a great advancement recognizing the importance of such are useful for examining policy impacts. For example, the
data for many policies of all levels of government for this number of Canadians impacted at 71 years, when they
population group. More detailed disaggregated data for have to stop contributing to tax-free savings and start
statistical analysis would be required for the development withdrawing funds which are taxed as income, can be
of evidence-based learning policies and programs for later seen. The average national life expectancy at birth in 2020
life for action by governments. was estimated to be 81.7 years, down from 82.3 years the
A descriptive analysis of these preliminary data is used year before due to the COVID pandemic but is expected
in this paper to discuss objectives for policy goals for late- to return to pre-pandemic levels once the health crisis
life learning and the potential infrastructure for delivery. recedes (Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, 2022;

Volume 9 Issue 3 (2023) 36 https://doi.org/10.36922/ijps.339