Stories of Creative Ageing

Abstract Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to highlight some of the benefits and issues relating to arts participation in later life. Design/methodology/approach – The paper draws on literature relating to older people’s arts participation, and also includes discussion of the author’s doctoral research into arts and ageing. The research was a qualitative study, influenced by narrative approaches and life-course perspectives. It involved interviews with 24 participants who have connections with a case-study town in the English Midlands. Findings - The paper focuses on the findings from six participants belonging to a male voice choir. The themes that are discussed include the importance of continuity; issues of identity; mutual support; impact of ill health and the sustainability of group activities. Research limitations/implications - This is a small-scale study, based in one case study town. Care should therefore be taken in generalising to different populations and areas. Potential for future research includes: • Other geographical locations, including larger urban areas. • Specific focus on choir participation, or other art form. • Involving people from a wider range of ethnic backgrounds. Social implications – This study adds to a growing body of evidence about the value of arts and culture to society. Originality/value – This study is original in adopting life-course perspectives to understand later life arts participation. It also offers original insights into the nature of arts-generated social capital and how this may be viewed within a wider context of resourceful ageing. Keywords – Ageing well, arts, social capital, singing, narratives, creativity Paper type – Research paper