The article views the problem of gerontoeducation as a factor of socialization and adaptation of senior citizens. It presents the data proving that one third of the elderly people in Russia have a need for learning. The article describes new forms of working with the elderly aimed at preservation of their social and intellectual activity, and allow them to maintain physical and spiritual well-being as long as possible. The author comes to the conclusion that «Institutions for senior citizens» allow elderly people to adapt to new modern conditions, activate their internal resources, feel needed and step onto the way of spiritual longevity. The Educational program «Help yourself» allows enables older people to serve themselves without somebody’s help, that in such difficult economic conditions could contribute with minimal charges to health improvement and increasing their life quality.