art:links: creativity, connection and companionship for older adults

Across the UK, social isolation and loneliness are among the most pressing challenges facing older adults – particularly those living with dementia, age-related conditions or limited mobility. Create developed art:links in response to this need: a creative arts programme that brings vulnerable older people together with professional artists to create, connect and be seen. 

Research shows that loneliness can have a profound impact on older people’s physical and mental health. Age UK estimates that around one million older people in the UK say they are often or always lonely, with many spending days without meaningful social interaction. Creative projects like art:links offer something vital in response: regular connection, shared purpose, and the chance to express identity beyond age or diagnosis. 

Creativity as a route to connection 

Margaret (84) joined art:links in Southwark soon after losing her husband. Led by Create writer Tim Cowbury, the participants explored creative writing. Taking part in the workshops gave Margaret the space not only to write, but to reconnect with others:

“Connecting with others is important because loneliness is the scourge of old age. And being creative uses your brain. You’re not just stuck being receptive, like if you sit and watch television all day.” 

For Margaret, writing stories from photographs and imagined perspectives presented new ways of thinking:

“We’ve been doing creative writing, making our own stories from characters, places and events.” 

“I’ve learned more about seeing things from different perspectives. That helps you to look at people in a different way.” 

Accessible creativity for people living with dementia 

At Merton Memory Hub, participants took part in six weeks of visual art workshops led by Create artist Teresa Paive. Sharon, a staff member at the hub, described the impact of seeing participants take part in the creative process: 

They got so immersed in what they were doing. It’s quite powerful that they can see something they’ve done. 

SHARON, STAFF MEMBER AT MERTON MEMORY HUB

“They were genuinely pleased to see what they’d created by the end of each session and then when we showed them again next week [they had] a sort of amazement at what they’re able to achieve.”

Importantly, the project considered the differing abilities within the group: 

“It was accessible for everyone at all levels. Sometimes you can feel quite demoralised when doing art, thinking ‘that’s not perfect’. But what Teresa did was very hands-on and what came out looked very good.” 

Crucially, the sessions created space for shared conversation and presence: 

“It was a chance to work together, collaborate and talk about [the art]. They also had a chance to talk about something in the present, which was really beautiful.” 

building relationships and growing confidence 

In Tower Hamlets, Eileen*, who lives alone and rarely goes out, took part in six weeks of visual arts workshops led by Create artist Emily Stapleton-Jefferis. She told us about her experience on the project: 

“Coming here has been a lifeline for me since the pandemic. I can’t really do big outside trips, so I want to be here. When I wake up, I’ve got somewhere to go, and that makes a difference, You’re not sitting indoors wondering what you’re going to do.”

Through collage, painting and printmaking, Eileen discovered a confidence she hadn’t expected: 

“It felt good because I’ve never really been creative. Maybe it’s [in] here somewhere, waiting to come out! [Creativity] keeps your mind alert and gives you different ideas.“

 It [relieves] stress and makes you feel good.   

eileen, art:links participant

“I like to socialise and pick up ideas from other people. I’m not [usually] good at art, but I’ve surpassed myself here and made things I really like. It’s a nice group and everybody helps each other.”

Why art:links matters 

Projects like art:links demonstrate that creativity shouldn’t be a luxury – it is a powerful tool for connection, stimulation and wellbeing. By creating welcoming, inclusive spaces where older adults can make, share and belong, art:links helps reduce isolation and reminds participants that they still have ideas, skills and stories worth sharing. 

Thank you to City Bridge Foundation, The Headley Trust and Worshipful Company of Coopers for funding these projects. 

*Names changed to protect anonymity