Evidence demonstrates the powerful impact that the arts can have on the health and wellbeing of older people – enhancing quality of life for people who are seeking to remain fit and well as they age and for people who live with a chronic condition such as dementia or depression.
Health benefits through arts activities, such as dancing and singing, include improved mobility and motor control, improved heart and respiratory function, greater self-esteem and confidence, less reliance on medication and personal care, higher social engagement and beneficial effects on mental health.
Such activities are increasingly important for the Mid North Coast region, which has one of the highest ageing populations in NSW with 32.7% of the region’s population aged 60 years and over. Projections show the Mid North Coast will have the oldest population in Australia by 2021. (ABS Data, 2016 Census).
Our Creative Ageing Feature seeks to provide information to assist those who wish to age creatively, whatever their interest.
Projects from our region
Creative Ageing
Story Sharing Moments – Together We Create
Creative Ageing
Creative Curiosity
Creative Ageing
Who Am I – Where Do I Come From?
Creative Ageing
Memoir Writing Workshops with Kim Hodges
Creative Ageing
Young At Art Project
Creative Ageing
Treasured Stories, Poetry and Song
Creative Ageing Resources
We provide access to resources including creative ageing research and publications for those interested in learning more about the field of creative ageing.
Creative Ageing Directory
Our Creative Ageing Directory provides a list of organisations and groups from all across the Mid North Coast who provide creative activities and events for older people.
There's something for everyone, so get out there and get creative!
Details provided in this directory were accurate at time of publication, please contact organisations directly for more information.
Pick your interest and find whats on locally:
Use drop down menu above to move up and down the page.
ART
Use drop down menu above to move up and down the page.
Join a Community Gallery or Group
Many of the Community based art groups and galleries on the Mid North Coast offer tuition as well as the opportunity to exhibit.
They are also a good place to volunteer if you have an interest in art.
Free Galleries
A feature of most art galleries on the Mid North Coast is that entry is normally free with the major galleries only charging for the occasional a major exhibition. There are over 60 galleries in the region and these can be found at
https://artsmidnorthcoast.com/cultural_trails/galleries/#all
and also in many cafes and wineries:
https://artsmidnorthcoast.com/cultural_trails/food-art/#all
Our Events Calendar also features all current exhibitions during the year:
CULTURAL HERITAGE
Use drop down menu above to move up and down the page.
Volunteer at a Museum
Did you know we have over 20 museums on the Mid North Coast and all depend on the passion and contribution of their volunteers.
You can find details of your local museum(s) by visiting https://artsmidnorthcoast.com/cultural_trails/museums/#all
Family History
Joining a local family history group will give you lots of benefits for researching your family history.
You also get to meet others who have a similar interest, may be researching similar areas and families, and those who have lots of knowledge that they are willing to share.
FILM
Use drop down menu above to move up and down the page.
Local Film Societies or Clubs
Interested in film then why not join your local Film Society or Club
Visit our Events Calendar anytime to find out the latest film events in the region from Film Festivals to one off screenings.
MUSIC
Use drop down menu above to move up and down the page.
Learn to play the Ukulele
All over the world the ukulele has become the favourite challenge for those wanting to connect through music.
A number of opportunities and groups can be found on the Mid North Coast:
Borrow a Ukulele
Port Macquarie Hastings residents can go the Port Macquarie Library and chat to one of the friendly Librarians about how to borrow a free uke kit which includes ukulele, tuner and case.
So far over 120 seniors have participated in this project and a group of them have formed a Ukulele Ensemble
WRITING
Use drop down menu above to move up and down the page.
Writing Groups
The written word can be a powerful tool of art and creativity. There are a number of writing groups throughout the region where you can share your love of writing or seek to improve your skills. In addition an important resource is the extensive network of libraries throughout the region. Libraries are much more than a place to read; they also stage a range of artistic events from book readings and launches, to workshops and presentations.
Our Libraries
Please check for varied opening hours especially the smaller branch libraries.