Exploring the role of museums for socially isolated older people

Research suggests that social prescribing schemes can offer health and psychological wellbeing benefits to older people across a range of interventions. The present study sought to understand how museum programmes, designed to support socially isolated older adults, created opportunities to enhance wellbeing and change experiences of social isolation.

A grounded theory approach was used to analyse initial interviews, 3-month follow-up interviews, and participant diaries, from 12 participants who took part in 10-week programmes across six different museums in London and Kent.

A theoretical model was developed showing elements of museum programmes, such as the role of the facilitator, activities and physical space, that enabled both individual journeys and relational processes. In addition, individual journeys and relational processes influenced each other, enhancing the experience. These components operated within an interacting social context that was enriched by the museum programme.

The theoretical model links with psychological concepts of attachment theory and self-esteem to explain how cultural group programmes could provide opportunities for change in older people. Limitations of the research, implications for clinical practice and recommendations for future research are discussed.