Many older Canadians (almost half, by some surveys) have low levels of functional literacy that lead to problems with everyday life. More than half of Canadians over age 55 have less than a grade 9 education, and they often have lower incomes than more literate seniors. However, older people are the smallest group represented in adult basic education programs. The elderly often do not participate because of the design or the location, not wanting to go out at night, and characteristics of the program or of the population. Literacy programs for older low literate adults should rely on input from gerontologists, literacy experts, and older adults, along with needs analysis in particular communities. Some programs for the elderly have been developed and they should be explored as models. (The summary is followed by a literature survey that covers the following topics: a profile of the illiterate older adult, interest and ability to acquire literacy in later years, deterrents to participation by older adults in existing literacy programs, differences between older and younger adults as they affect educational needs, design considerations for a literacy program for the elderly, groups with special needs within the illiterate elderly, literacy programs for seniors, and suggestions for further study and action. The survey lists 98 references.) (KC)