Digital belonging in later life: participatory art facilitators' insights on reimagining socially engaged art for online elder health and well-being

Abstract

This thesis examines how participatory art facilitators adapt socially engaged art practices for older adults in digital environments while maintaining their social and emotional benefits. The study focuses on online participatory arts programs embedded within health and social care systems. In contrast to conventional digital health tools such as telemedicine, wearables, or electronic health records, these arts-based interventions primarily address psychosocial health outcomes, including reduced loneliness, increased connectedness, and enhanced emotional resilience.

Using qualitative interviews with facilitators from Taiwan and Europe, this research identifies strategies, challenges, and guiding values in digital adaptations of participatory arts. Findings indicate that facilitators’ relational sensitivity and improvisational approaches play a crucial role in sustaining trust, dignity, and belonging online. The study contributes to ongoing discussions on digital inclusion, participatory arts, and aging by informing the design of future digital health platforms, policymaking, and facilitator capacity-building.