“You Must Learn to Age”: Reflections on and Adaptations to Age-Related Changes Among Older Artists and Craftspeople

Abstract

Studies about older people’s participation in artistic activities have increased. However, a deeper understanding of older artists’ adaptation to the ageing process is still lacking. The purposes of this study were to explore how older artists and craftspeople perceive age-related changes, and to examine their adaptations to these changes. We carried out in-depth, open-ended individual interviews with 30 visual artists and craftspeople aged 60 and older. We found that almost all of them experienced age-related changes in relation to their artistic engagement, which they mainly associated with health-related issues, namely sensory losses and physical changes. In addition, we identified six strategies aimed at adjusting to age-related changes: adapting the work pace, modifying the artistic practice, using technical aids, engaging in artistic collaboration, developing environmental adaptations, and implementing self-care practices. Most participants discussed at least one strategy to adapt to age-related changes, and it was common to combine various strategies. Findings were discussed from a lifespan perspective. Our study expands previous research on experiences of artistic participation among older people, and specifically on their modes of adapting to the ageing process in the context of their artistic practices.