Children in elementary and secondary classrooms today have the potential of living longer than any previous generation.  Barring some catastrophic development, it is possible that large proportions of these students will live into their eighties, nineties, or beyond.  All around them will be people who will also be living longer.  Population aging will affect virtually every aspect of society, including families, businesses, and government.  Will these older adults of tomorrow be capable of taking advantage of their unique opportunity for long life?   As family members, voters, and citizens of the community, how well will they deal with the challenges posed by the graying of the population?  The answers will depend heavily on whether, when, and to what extent the educational community responds to the critical need for education about aging.

The fundamental premise behind NATLA's mission is that aging is a lifelong experience, and that education about aging is important for everyone, not just for people who are older or for those who pursue careers in gerontology and elder services.  We believe that people of all ages need to learn about aging.  This need is especially important for young people with the prospect of long life before them.   Our purpose is to promote education for long life, not to fault educators or the publishing industry for shortcomings that stem from pervasive cultural misconceptions and previous lack of scientific knowledge about aging.  Above all else, we hope that this resource stimulates interest and work in this exciting and emerging field of education.

by Donna Couper and Fran Pratt

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