For our master’s project, we (Elke Peetroons and Marie Decreton) investigated how older adults can continue to actively participate in artistic activities, even when physical limitations play a role. We organized creative workshops in three residential care centers, in collaboration with residents, caregivers, and activity coordinators.

The research was based on two perspectives: Elke focused on how caregivers can deal with physical limitations such as reduced motor skills, hearing loss, or poor vision. Marie focused on the power of meeting and sharing stories within a creative context.

The workshops showed that an artistic space in a residential care center can be much more than just an activity. It becomes a place for meeting, self-expression, and recognition. By adapting materials and assignments and maintaining a constant dialogue, space for creativity emerged, despite the limitations.

With this project, we want to demonstrate that art can also play a valuable role in later life and in care contexts. It is an invitation to continue to approach older people as creators, with needs, but also with ideas, humor, and imagination.

Participatief project in woonzorgcentrum De Vijvers Gent

Participatief project in woonzorgcentrum Magnolia Jette.

Participatief project in woonzorgcentrum Keymolen Armonea Lennik