This paper explores the relation between EU lifelong learning policies and strategies on the one hand, and, on the other, the attributes and practices of adults in relation to learning in later life. Following a brief summary of the genealogy of the concept of lifelong learning, a critical examination is provided of EU policies on and participation rates in lifelong learning. The discussions will focus in particular on that intersection between later life and lifelong learning by highlighting the failure of much current EU legislation and perspectives on lifelong learning to take serious account of the changing nature of lifecourse patterns and, in particular, the role and involvement of the ‘post-work’ population.