Museums for Life: Co-creating a collaborative programme for older adults

Context: Museums for Life was designed to address the health needs of local older adults, including chronic health conditions and loneliness. Based on Creative Health Quality Principles, the programme aims to foster social connectedness through creative activities inspired by museum’s collection. The pilot programme included two eight-week series, engaging 15 participants aged 60-91, living with a variety of health conditions, experiencing social isolation, and people who had not previously engaged in a museum programme. Aims: The primary aim was to develop a comprehensive framework for inclusive practice within the museum context. It sought to enhance social connectedness among older adults while promoting creativity through collaborative art-making activities. Additionally, it sought to create opportunities for those who had not previously participated in museum programmes. Methods: Participants were recruited through local networks and charities, focusing on those experiencing isolation, chronic health issues, or unfamiliarity with museum activities. Two eight-week programmes were conducted in 2025, using high-quality art materials and informal creative invitations that encouraged personal engagement rather than formal education. Each session featured themes inspired by the museum’s collection and included opportunities for exploration within gallery spaces. Findings: Participant feedback revealed enhanced social interaction and a sense of community during the programmes, with participants forming independent WhatsApp groups for continued connection. The programmes resulted in a deeper appreciation for museum artifacts, with participants noting the emotional and mental health benefits of engaging in creative activities. Flexibility in programme design was crucial, accommodating additional participants and varying levels of engagement. Implications: Other educational and cultural institutions might learn from the approach taken by the Museums for Life programme in terms of fostering inclusive practices that emphasize community building through creativity. The programme highlights the importance of flexibility and participant-centred design that cater to diverse needs, particularly for populations facing social isolation and living with diverse health conditions. Additionally, engaging participants in collaborative artistic endeavours can serve as a means to enhance connection and overall wellbeing within the community.

Keywords (free text)

museums, creative health, social connectedness, inclusive practice, community wellbeing

Permanent link to cite this item

https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14069/1029

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Fitzwilliam Museum Research Briefings