Abstract

This paper reports the findings of an empirical study to explore art activities for older people in art museums. The
aim was to ascertain the needs of older people undertaking activities at art museums and to ascertain whether the activities fulfil
them. The survey process included both quantitative and qualitative methodological approaches. One hundred and eleven older
people took part in the survey. The results were analyzed in relation to the research aims following both thematic and statistical
approaches which suggest that social interaction is the most significant factor in older people‟s motivations in attending art
activities. The findings summarise the results and discuss implications and the research concludes by offering implications for
practice. Finally, I suggest further research for art museums on how to best access programs for older people.