The reported investigation is into third-age foreign language learning experiences from a wellbeing perspective. Interviews with third-age learners were conducted and analysed through the lens of positive psychology, exploring the connections between the savouring of language learning and overall wellbeing, and how learners’ language-learning experiences contribute to “successful ageing”.
The super-ageing society of Japan has the highest proportion in the world of people aged 65+. Many of them fall into the category of third-agers - relatively healthy and motivated ageing adults free of obligations relating to work or child-rearing. A number of them devote significant time to personal development, pursuing their life-purposes by participating in various educational programs, or even studying on their own. Learning a foreign language in later stages of life has been a popular choice, whether the choice is to revisit a language studied earlier or to start learning a new foreign language "from scratch."
The motivations of third-agers to tackle this sometimes seemingly Sisyphean task of language learning are as diverse as the group itself; one of the main motivators, however, is the enhancement of their well-being. Rather than seeking high proficiency in a foreign language, they regard the learning experience itself as beneficial for their mental health. The very process of foreign language learning is meaningful for them.
So far, I have interviewed 11 third-age foreign language learners, analysing their experiences through the lens of positive psychology, using the concept of "savouring". Data obtained through a series of in-depth interviews have revealed various positive effects of continuous engagement with language learning on the wellbeing of individual participants. The benefits that these third-agers report can be divided into 1) cognitive benefits, such as intellectual stimulation, increased thought-provoking noticing of linguistic and cultural similarities/differences and even reduced forgetfulness, and 2) socio-affective benefits, such as increased opportunities for meaningful communication and connectedness with people outside as well as inside the home environment, enjoyable experience of learning and a better mood generally.
Qualitative inquiries of this kind and the dissemination of the resultant research findings may contribute to the well-being and "successful ageing" of third-agers.
