Although older persons are increasing both in number and as a proportion of the total American population, they are not taking advantage of educational opportunities. Barriers to their educational efforts include inadequate transportation, lack of money, poor health, program scheduling, and the attitude that learning is for others. Available educational, employment, and volunteer opportunities can help older adults cope with changing physiological and psychological needs, find personal satisfaction, and continue their usefulness to the community. Different emphases and methods of delivery can be used to reach older persons: mass media, correspondence courses, community outreach, educational brokering, and counseling; all of these have been used effectively. Through legislative changes, federal and state coordination, the development of new services, and greater public awareness of the needs of older adults, educational opportunities are a reality. However, formal and informal efforts must continue to be intensified. It is in the national interest that educational resources be developed and augmented to the end that lifelong learning opportunities for all citizens, regardless of previous education or training, be widely available to promote our nation's continued vitality. (CT)