Learning in the care home setting 'very important'

It is important to ensure that learning takes place when elderly people are in the care home environment, one expert has advised.

Simon Bottery, director of policy and communications for Independent Age, says: "Older people can always learn new things if supported to do so. It can promote residents' confidence and self-esteem as well as their mental wellbeing."

His comments come in response to the recent release of a new report from the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills, which stated that continued learning can have a dramatic impact on the health of elderly people.

As a result, a new set of learning resources has been developed in order to give practical support and advice to care managers, local authorities and education providers about how to enhance learning in the care environment.

Mr Bottery says that the introduction of the specialist materials for elderly learners is "a very welcome development" for care homes.

Written by Elizabeth Marks