The Pre-Retirement Association, using data gathered by the National Institute of Adult Education in its inquiry into the adequacy of provision of adult education in England and Wales, has made an attempt to gather information about the interests and activities of people as they grow older. The message of the study was that if age is to have its proper dignity and fulfillment, education must indeed be developed as a continuous process throughout life. Two samples were analyzed: the general population sample and a sample of participants in adult education. Characteristics studied for both included age, sex, employment status, leisure and membership in clubs and societies. Classes attended by students were also included in the analysis. Loss of learning ability with age was relatively greater for those with poor education; and there were incalculable advantages to the individual in being a member of various social groups. There was an association between the extent of early education and subsequent occupational and social class rating and attitudes to education in later life. (PT)