Professional development for senior talents
Course 2: Module 1
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or OeAD-GmbH. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.�Project N° 2023-1-AT01-KA220-VET-000157913
Content
KAIN Method: Knowledge Acquisition According to Individual Needs
The KAIN Method is an innovative approach that bridges the gap between classroom learning and real-world application in small and medium-sized enterprises. Rather than treating training as a separate activity, KAIN integrates qualification with genuine company development projects, ensuring that every insight gained translates into tangible business improvements.
Your Role: You are active shapers of this journey—not passive recipients. Trainers serve as content providers, coaches, and facilitators, but you own your projects and drive the learning forward.
The Three-Phase KAIN Journey
Phase 1: Workshop
Build a common knowledge base through interactive classroom sessions and collaborative workshops
Phase 2: Practice & Coaching
Apply learning on the job over 4–6 weeks with targeted coaching support
Phase 3: Presentation & Reflection
Share results, exchange experiences, and capture lessons learned
What KAIN Delivers for You
Build Knowledge
Establish a shared foundation of concepts and tools whilst respecting and leveraging your individual experience and organisational context
Drive Change
Initiate concrete, measurable improvements in your own company through focused projects that matter to your business
Grow Together
Learn from peers, receive expert coaching, and develop your capability as both a project owner and collaborative team member
Your Deliverables Before Phase 2
What You'll Deliver Before the Practice Phase Begins
The bridge between Phase 1 and Phase 2 is critical. Before you begin your on-the-job practice, you'll need to crystallise your thinking and prepare a solid foundation for action. This preparation ensures you enter the practice phase with clarity and confidence, ready to make meaningful progress.
Preliminary Project Topic
Identify a clear problem or opportunity within your company. This should be something concrete, business-relevant, and within your sphere of influence.
First SMART Goal Draft
Frame your objective using the SMART criteria: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. This becomes your north star.
Stakeholder Sketch
Map who is affected by this project, who supports it, and who has decision-making authority. Early stakeholder engagement prevents surprises later.
Rough Action Plan
Outline 3–5 key actions or experiments you'll undertake during the 4–6 week practice phase. Keep it flexible but purposeful.
How We Support Your Preparation
Quality Criteria
Start Small: Think pilot, not transformation. "Just big enough" to be meaningful.
Business-Relevant: Choose something visible that matters to stakeholders.
Measurable Effects: Define clear indicators like lead time, error rate, or satisfaction scores.
Save the Date: We reconvene on xx.xx.xxxx for Phase 3—project presentations, experience exchange, and lessons learned. Mark your calendar now.
Starting questions
Open group discussion
Professional/personal change
https://www.mentimeter.com/app/presentation/alp82bznp11r3973z9j3k5ss8gdxw7kf/edit?question=27k6cdb8ymsp -
Personal development and planning
Personal timeline
Instructions:
Personal timeline – guiding questions
What were significant events?
What did I learn from them?
What strengths or skills did I develop?
Group work on personal timeline (3-4 people)
Time: approx. 30 minutes per group ⏰
Let‘s grow some ideas
🎯 Task:�Define 2–3 personal overall goals, using one clear sentence per goal
🤝 Work in Pairs:�Discuss your ideas with a partner�Help each other refine and sharpen your goals
📝 Write It Down:�Use one sheet of paper (seed paper if available)�Write your goals clearly – this is your starting point
🌱 Let It Grow:�Watch your goals grow – like the seeds, with care and time
Personal development plan
🧭 Reflect Individually – Take Your Time�This can be done quietly at home or whenever you have space to think�
🌍 Is there something you would like to give to the next generation or to society?
📚 What do you want to learn or improve in the future?
📄Fill out the Personal Development Plan Template shown here�Make it personal and meaningful — it’s your own roadmap
Building your own professional profile
Which (digital) resources do I need for reaching my personal development goals?
Group work “What did you learn in the last year?»
Pair work – SOAR model
Trainer's mini-lecture/ presentation - national and digital resources
Introduction (trainer's mini-lecture)
Summary (reflection)
Individual work – analysis experience
Why should a senior build their own strong professional profile?
What are your thoughts/ideas?
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or OeAD-GmbH. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.�Project N° 2023-1-AT01-KA220-VET-000157913
6 key reasons
1. Recognize and Value Experience
Many seniors underestimate their life and work experience. Building a professional profile helps them see their skills clearly — including soft skills, volunteering, parenting, leadership, and problem-solving.
2. Stay Active and Engaged
A strong profile can help seniors to see their role or part in community projects; mentor projects; possibilities to re-enter the workforce (part-time, consulting, freelancing); new volunteer roles etc.
3. Increase Confidence and Self-Worth
Writing down achievements, strengths, and talents boosts self-esteem. A strong profile can help seniors realize their value in society and often feel more energized and purposeful.
6 key reasons
4. Navigate the digital world
A strong profile is a step towards digital literacy for seniors, as it gives them the opportunity to present themselves online and build a network of contacts (creating a LinkedIn profile; writing a digital CV; using email or online forms etc.)
5. Learn new things
Creating a profile helps identify gaps: “What do I want to learn next?”, “What skills can I still improve?”. This leads to goal setting and personal development.
6. Be ready for opportunities
New opportunities arise throughout life, so it's important to be open to them (paid work; speaking at community events; mentoring programs; lifelong learning grants etc.) A professional profile makes it easier to apply or accept when such opportunities arise.
A personal professional profile can become a life story shared with family, learners, or the community.
It is a way to reflect on and honor your life journey.
Your professional profile is your story – and it’s worth sharing.
What did you learn in the last year?�10 minutes
This question is about strengthening and discovering yourself professionally and personally.
1. Using the cards, divide into groups of 3-5 and discuss: «What new things each person has learned or improved on their existing skills recently?»
2. Finally, reflect in the large group - was the training more related to soft or hard skills?
Analysis of experience - individual work
Please reflect on your entire experience as fully as possible – not only formal education or paid work! Think about your life as a whole: work, hobbies, volunteering, family, learning, etc.
- Work life (paid/unpaid)
- Volunteering (etc. activities)
- Skills (communication, problem solving, listening)
- Personal development (books, hobbies, training)
WORKSHEET template
All experiences count – not only formal education or paid work! Think about your life as a whole: work, hobbies, volunteering, family, and learning.
1. Work Experience (Include both paid and unpaid work – formal jobs, caregiving, projects, etc.)
Position / Role | Where? (Company / Place) | What did you do? | Years |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
WORKSHEET template
2. Volunteering and Community Activities
(Helping others, community work, local clubs, caregiving, church, etc.)
Role or Activity | Where? (Group / Location) | Your Contribution | Years |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
WORKSHEET template
3. My Soft Skills
Tick (✔) the soft skills that describe you best. You can add your own!
WORKSHEET template
4. Hobbies and Personal Development
(Courses, learning, creative activities, life experiences that helped you grow)
Activity / Interest | What did you learn or gain? |
| |
| |
| |
WORKSHEET template
5. What would I like to explore or learn next?
(Optional reflection)
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
WORKSHEET template
If you had to briefly describe yourself to someone, what would you answer to these questions in 1-2 sentences?
Work in pairs
SOAR model ��Strengths�Opportunities�Aspirations�Results�
Image created by AI
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or OeAD-GmbH. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.�Project N° 2023-1-AT01-KA220-VET-000157913
Pair work 30 min. -
each participant takes turns reflecting while a peer acts as a supportive coach using the SOAR model template.
SOAR model
�Focus: Strength-based, future-oriented � development�Best for: Seniors who want to reframe their� experience into forward-looking, � purposeful profiles�Format: Great for peer discussions or � coaching pairs in workshops.�
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or OeAD-GmbH. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.�Project N° 2023-1-AT01-KA220-VET-000157913
S — Strengths
What are your greatest professional strengths and assets today?
O — Opportunities
Where can you apply or amplify those strengths today?
A — Aspirations
What kind of professional identity do you want to project moving forward?
R — Results
What specific actions will you take to align your profile with your strengths and goals?
National and digital resources�
Short summary of available information
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or OeAD-GmbH. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.�Project N° 2023-1-AT01-KA220-VET-000157913
National resources �for seniors
(*information about national opportunities - each trainer supplements individually)
Digital resources for seniors
(*information about digital opportunities - each trainer supplements individually)
����������Discover your strengths�
�https://www.viacharacter.org/�
A scientifically based test that identifies your 24 character strengths (e.g. kindness, curiosity, resilience). �Available for Adults in different languages.
Personality test
https://www.16personalities.com/
A popular free personality test (based on MBTI theory) that provides insight into:
Available in different languages.
Senior Planet
3 main conclusions��
Reflection
experiences today that I wasn’t aware
of before?
do I find most useful for my
development goals – and why?
week to develop myself or try something
new?
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or OeAD-GmbH. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.�Project N° 2023-1-AT01-KA220-VET-000157913
AI and practial exercises
What is AI and how does it work?
Reflection- Stay critical
"Dieses Foto" von Unbekannter Autor ist lizenziert gemäß CC BY-SA-NC
ChatGPT Try Out-session
🎯 Use ChatGPT to support your personal career development
👩💻 How to Start: Think about your career questions or challenges and ask ChatGPT for advice, ideas, or learning resources
💡 Sample Questions:
Accesibility and assistive technology
Why Accessibility matters
Accessibility ensures that everyone can participate in society, education, and work — regardless of physical, sensory, or cognitive limitations.
Many countries have laws (e.g., the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, EU Accessibility Act, ADA in the US) requiring accessible services.
Accessibility is not just a “bonus” — it’s a human right.
With technology, individuals can continue to learn, grow, and develop skills that otherwise might be inaccessible.
Why Accessibility matters
Assistive technology
https://www.mentimeter.com/app/presentation/almyctayxggda4ekv5uudp7fdtmzbz1z/edit?question=y9nem7c8tim7
Practical technological tools
Category | Tool/Technology | Benefit |
Voice Control | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant | Voice commands, reminders, info access |
Calendar & Planning | Google Calendar, Microsoft Outlook | Manage appointments, reminders |
Reminders | ToDoist, Microsoft To Do | Task lists, notifications |
Communication | WhatsApp, Zoom, Skype | Easy messaging & video calls |
Writing Assistance | MS Word Dictate, Dragon NaturallySpeaking | Speech-to-text for easy writing |
Banking | N26, Sparkasse App, VR-Banking App | Simple, secure online banking |
Notes | OneNote, Evernote | Digital note-taking and organization |
Accessibility Tools | Screen magnifiers, Accessible keyboards | Easier use and better readability |
Learning Apps | Duolingo, Memrise | Language & skill learning |
Create your own Tool-Map
Stress management, problem solving & resilience
What is stress?
Stress management, problem solving, resilience
Stress management methods
Simple 3-step model
Resilience
Summary (reflection)
Short warm-up: “What does stress mean to you?”
Each participant thinks about what the
word «Stress» associates with, but does not say it out loud.
One participant begins by naming what association the word «Stress» evokes.
Image created by AI
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2
If, upon hearing the association named by a colleague, it matches what was previously imagined, those participants who agree stand up or raise their hand.
4
Naming associations is completed once everyone has mentioned their options or joined those named by their colleagues.
3
It can be caused by both good and bad experiences.
What is Stress?
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or OeAD-GmbH. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
Project N° 2023-1-AT01-KA220-VET-000157913
Stress is the body’s natural reaction to a challenge or demand.
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Observation of the day
Occurrence/occurrences
3
Body sensations
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Behavior
Positive and Negative Stress
Eustress – Helpful stress that motivates you (e.g., starting a new hobby or learning something new)
Distress – Harmful stress that feels overwhelming or draining
Signs of stress
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Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or OeAD-GmbH. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
Project N° 2023-1-AT01-KA220-VET-000157913
Fatigue / low energy
Headaches
Muscle pain or tension
Sleep disturbances (insomnia or oversleeping)
Changes in appetite
Irritability or anger
Worry or anxiety
Mood swings
Sadness or depression Feeling helpless or hopeless
Difficulty Concentrating
Memory Problems
Constant Worry
Racing Thoughts Indecisiveness
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Trouble sleeping
Withdrawal from others
Changes in routine Procrastination Avoiding responsibilities
Stress management methods
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or OeAD-GmbH. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
Project N° 2023-1-AT01-KA220-VET-000157913
Deep Breathing Exercises for Beginners
Breathing exercise
(video and applications samples).
*information about opportunities - each trainer supplements individually
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=acUZdGd_3Dg
Breathing Exercises for Ages 60+
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2fEHQYBWj1E
4-7-8 Calm Breathing Exercise
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Dv-ldGLnIY
8 Simple Breathing Exercises for Older Adults
https://www.kendalathome.org/blog/breathe-easy-six- breath-exercises-for-older-adults
Application example
The role of daily routine in stress management
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Creates a Sense of Stability
Improves Time Management
Supports Healthy Habits
Builds a Sense of Control
Having control over small daily activities helps maintain emotional balance and resilience.
Reduces Decision Fatigue
Fewer daily decisions (What to do next? When to eat?) mean less mental exhaustion and more energy for challenges.
Encourages Self-Care
A set routine makes it easier to include activities like walking, reading, socializing, or practicing mindfulness.
Improves Sleep Patterns
Going to bed and waking up at consistent times supports good sleep hygiene — essential for stress recovery.
Physical Activity
A Natural Stress Reliever
Releases endorphins – “feel-good” chemicals that boost mood
Reduces stress hormones (like cortisol and adrenaline)
Improves energy levels and focus
Encourages better sleep quality
Promotes social interaction (e.g., walking groups, classes)
Sleep
The Body’s Recovery System Restores physical and mental energy
Regulates mood and emotional balance
Improves memory, concentration, and decision-making
Helps the body manage stress hormones
The importance of physical activity and sleep in stress
management
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Important: Even light activities like walking, gardening, or stretching for 15–30 minutes daily can help reduce stress.
2
Important: Create a regular sleep schedule and relaxing bedtime routine to improve sleep quality.
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Together, regular physical activity and restful sleep form
the foundation of resilience and well-being.
Defining problems.
3-step model: an example of changing habits.
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or OeAD-GmbH. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
Project N° 2023-1-AT01-KA220-VET-000157913
Small group work
Naming the problem (what, where, when, how, who, why?)
Simple 3-step model
It is important to focus on realistic facts and realistic solutions that are possible.
→ What’s not working or needs to change?
Possible solutions (What potential solutions have you evaluated? Are there any constraints preventing you from choosing a solution? How will you know whether the solution is successful?)
→ What could help? List different options.
Choosing (Choices 1, 2, 3: how well the solution will achieve the desired results — how effective will it be, how successfully can a solution be achieved?)
→ Pick 1 realistic step.
Choose 1 problem/difficulty in the group
Problem area - difficulty creating a new habit for stress management
Analyze the problem/difficulty using the «Simple 3-step model»
1 representative from each group provides feedback on:
Example
Problem area:
"A senior often watches TV late into the night and feels tired in the morning."
Small group discussion:
Why changing habits is hard for seniors?
Picture from the internet
Source: https://newtothepost.wordpress.com/2019/03/04/habits-why-we-need-change-them/
Why changing habits is hard for seniors
Many habits have been formed and repeated over decades. The brain becomes efficient at repeating familiar patterns, making change feel uncomfortable or unnatural.
Change can feel risky or overwhelming, especially when routines offer comfort and predictability. Some seniors worry: “What if the new way doesn’t work for me?”
Physical fatigue, chronic conditions, or medications may reduce the energy needed for new routines. Some seniors may feel, “At my age, why change now?”
Why changing habits is hard for seniors
Habits are often tied to identity or memories (e.g., a nightly snack while watching TV). Changing them can bring up emotions like loss or frustration.
Seniors living alone or with limited social contact may lack encouragement or accountability. Change is harder without someone to cheer you on or model new behaviors.
Mild memory issues or slower processing speed can make it harder to plan, remember, or stick to new behaviors.
If a new habit involves using digital tools (like fitness apps or online scheduling), digital literacy may be a barrier.
The Good News
With small steps, support, patience, and repetition, seniors can build new habits — especially when they align with personal goals and values.
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or OeAD-GmbH. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
Project N° 2023-1-AT01-KA220-VET-000157913
What is psychological resilience?
Resilience is the ability to cope with
challenges, stress, and change — and
to bounce back stronger.
It doesn’t mean ignoring problems, but
learning how to handle them in a healthy, calm way.
Resilient people:
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The importance of a support system
A support system means having people to talk to, laugh with, and rely on when life gets tough.
Your support system may include:
Staying connected helps reduce loneliness, improve mood, and increase your ability to cope with stress. We are stronger together.
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Source: https://fastercapital.com/topics/the-role-of-social-support-in-resilience.html/1 https://digbyplace.seniorlivingnearme.com/blog/building-a-resilient-life-in-older-adults-through-mental-support https://www.elderaid.in/resource-hub/building-a-strong-support-system-for-seniors-a-guide-for-families-and-friends
Draw circle
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or OeAD-GmbH. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
Project N° 2023-1-AT01-KA220-VET-000157913
«My support system»
Self-analysis
Me
Task
The power of positive thinking
Your mindset matters. Focusing on
what you can do, instead of what you
can’t, helps your brain stay more
flexible and calm.
Positive thinking doesn’t ignore problems — it helps you find solutions.
Try to:
A positive outlook builds inner strength, helps you stay active, and improves your well-being.
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Resilience is your inner strength.
Your support system is your safety net.
Positive thinking is your mindset tool.
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Your 3 main conclusions
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Financial planning
Financial planning
Definition: Financial planning involves setting goals, creating a budget, managing debt, saving, and investing to ensure financial security.
Key Components:
Financial planning
Staying financially independent = staying self-determined
More digital tools, more choices – but also more complexity
Risk of scams and misinformation increases without financial awareness
Key points
Access to Insurance and Pensions
Online banking
Budgeting and Daily Financial Planning
Saving and Investing
AI-support for financial planning
Finanznavi
https://finanznavi.gv.at/en
Communication your professional development plan
Communication of the professional development plan (PDP)
Importance to communicate PDP
PDP communication structure
Speech training
Discussion
Summary (reflection)
Why is it important to communicate PDP for seniors?
Image created by AI
Group work – 5 minutes
The task can be done in both large and small groups. Small groups can have 3-5 participants each. You can use methods chosen by the trainer to divide the groups, for example, counting from 1-5 if 5 groups are required.
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Case study example for group analysis (10 min)
«Maria, 64, worked 30 years as an accountant. After retirement, she volunteers at a local library and runs a small online crafts business. Her PDP includes learning digital marketing and mentoring young professionals in budgeting.»
3. What are your groups' conclusions - what should Maria have said more clearly
about herself?
PDP Communication Structure
Use this simple 3-part model to guide your speech:
| Question | Content |
1. | Who I am? | Your background, experience, and life path (brief) |
2. | What are my superpowers? |
|
3. | What do I want to achieve? |
|
“I’m good at...”
Useful Vocabulary Suggestions
To describe your strengths and soft skills, use phrases like:
“People appreciate my...”
“I have experience in...”
“I would like to improve my...” “One of my goals is to...”
Pair Work – 20 minutes
2-Minute Story + Feedback
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Step-by-step instructions
Each participant uses the 3-part model to prepare their short presentation (can use a
printed template or notes «PDP Communication Structure»).
PDP Mini-Speech Template
(Brief background and current situation)
(Skills, qualities, strengths)
(What I want to achieve and why it matters)
Step-by-step instructions
One speaks for 2 minutes, the other listens and then gives positive and constructive
feedback:
Switch roles (each participant gets a turn).
*Trainer observes and supports as needed.
How did it feel to talk about your plan?
Discussion in large group
Was there anything difficult to say or explain?
What helped you feel more confident?
What did you notice in other people’s communication?
What could we practice more?
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Your 3 main conclusions
Thank you for your attention!