Stories of Creative Ageing

REYNOLDS, Jackie (2015) Stories of Creative Ageing. Working with Older People, 19 (1). ISSN 1366-3666 (In Press)

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Abstract or description

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.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Ageing well, arts, social capital, singing, narratives, creativity
Faculty:	Previous Faculty of Arts and Creative Technologies > Journalism, Humanities and Social Sciences
Depositing User:	Jackie REYNOLDS
Date Deposited:	17 Dec 2014 15:20
Last Modified:	24 Feb 2023 03:47
URI:	https://eprints.staffs.ac.uk/id/eprint/1964

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