Sharing and caring: Collaborative creativity and co-curated exhibitions to enhance belonging in older adults

Abstract

Objectives: This paper explores the potential of photographs and creative practice to connect older adults to self and community through photograph-sharing and care practices. Methods: This qualitative study used a combination of collaborative arts-based practice and friendship as a method to explore creative photo walks with 12 older adults based across residential aged care and community dwellings. Results: Sharing images with others and collaborative exhibitions enhanced new social connections and personal communications. The research highlighted three key dimensions that emerged from the creative practice: connection, agency and the capacity for giving. Conclusions: This article contributes to discourses in creative gerontology, participatory research methodologies and arts-based approaches to understanding ageing. By foregrounding the experiences of older adults and centring their creative agency, we challenge deficit-based models of ageing and propose alternative frameworks that recognise the ongoing creativity, resilience and social potential of older individuals.