A study was conducted (1) to analyze the Educational Participation Scale (EPS) factor patterns derived from a sample of senior citizens in order to contribute additional reliability and validity data to the instrument; and (2) to look at reasons that have influenced senior citizens to pursue educational activities, specifically the Elderhostel Program. The sample for the study was 160 Elderhostel participants at the University of New Mexico and the College of Santa Fe during the summer of 1981. Most participants had a college degree or postsecondary education. The Educational Participation Scale was administered to this sample, with a 75 percent return rate. Four scales consisting of 31 items were used to rank participants' reasons for enrolling in terms of escape/stimulation, social welfare, social relationships, and cognitive interest. (Items from earlier versions of the instrument pertaining to professional advancement were deleted.) It was found that the Educational Participation Scale yielded factor patterns similar to earlier studies by Boshier and Riddle, and that this form of the EPS would be a useful instrument for adult educators and program planners in planning programs for adults. The results from the study further indicate that cognitive interest was the most powerful motivator of the population, with social relationships the next most powerful motivator. No differences in motivation were found by age and sex. (A list of recommendations and practical tips for conducting programs for elderly persons is given at the end of this paper.) (KC)