Creating a Wellness Culture

Abstract

The landscape of health and wellness in the early twentyfirst century is complex and evolving at an unprecedented pace. It is also marked with unprecedented challenges: soaring healthcare costs, aging populations, and an explosion of chronic—and costly—diseases like obesity. Concurrently, at least in the U.S., the STEM gap is widening, and acute shortages of healthcare professionals are expected in the coming years. But the author believes that such great challenges can lead to opportunities, including some for the museum community. In his broad yet personal view of the state of health and wellness today, he makes the argument that museums are poised to help promote and even accelerate the shift that is already underway from a "sickness culture" to a "wellness culture." Finally, he provides the museum community with a framework for action as it works to guide all of us to a more health literate—and ultimately, a healthier—society.