Study breaks new ground on the relationship between the arts and well-being among older adults

A new study led by Dr. Jennifer MacRitchie, Dr. Nicola Pennill, Dr. Christian Morgner, Prof Renee Timmers, and Unforgettable Experiences CEO Victoria Burnip, published in Arts & Health, sheds new light on how participation in online arts programs can support well-being among older adults. Unlike previous studies that focus on if people engage with the arts, this research examines how that engagement unfolds over five different art forms—offering insights with practical implications for the design of arts-based interventions.

The research evaluated online programs delivered by the community organization Unforgettable Experiences, involving 19 participants aged 50 and over. Over six weeks, participants took part in sessions in history, music, creative writing, photography, and visual art. Using innovative video-based methods, the research team analyzed participants’ levels of verbal engagement and followed changes over time.

The study found that visual arts activities, such as art and photography, encouraged more spontaneous, self-directed contributions than more structured sessions like music or history. These interactions increased as the programs progressed, suggesting that open-ended creative activities can foster confidence, autonomy, and social connection. In contrast, a case study with structured tasks in creative writing looked at how one participant experienced a deeply meaningful “unlocking moment,” showing the value of identifying subtle transformations.

The findings highlight how careful design and evaluation of arts programs can enhance well-being and participation among older adults.