In order to determine the actual and perceived needs of undereducated older adults, a study was conducted: (1) to determine and compare the perceived educational needs of older adults using a sample of older individuals, adult basic education (ABE) teachers, and nutrition site directors; and (2) to compare the primary identified educational needs of a sample of undereducated adults with the experts' perception that adult basic education is the most significant need of such a group. Data were gathered from 505 older adults (aged 60 and over), 145 nutrition directors (66 percent return), and 482 ABE teachers (19 percent return), using questionnaires about learning needs of older adults and demographic data. Analysis of the data gathered led to several conclusions. First, the reading interests of older adults are as diverse as the population. Second, significant differences exist between the perceptions of educational needs of older adults by older adults and by the professionals in the field. A third conclusion is that, of the two professional groups in this study, nutrition directors were in greater consensus with the older adults. A fourth result of the study is that health is of primary importance to undereducated older adults, while the final conclusion is that these persons do not see ABE as a primary educational need. These conclusions should be considered by those who plan educational experiences for older adults; perhaps they should consider integrating ABE in health education classes. (KC)