Creativity, aging, context and culture: Reimagining creativity in everyday life in older adults

Abstract

Despite increasing interest in creative aging, little connection has been made between creative aging research and research and theory on creativity. In part 1 of this paper, we will explain why 20th century psychological concepts of creativity were inadequate to describe the impact of creative participation for older adults, and how those theories promoted stereotypes of aging. In part 2, we discuss theory and research from gerontologists on why creative activities are important, and how more inclusive theories of creativity can guide researchers in their quest to determine how creative participation can benefit older adults, and the culture at large. Sociocultural theories of creativity highlight the importance of culture and context as essential components of creativity. For example, sociocultural creativity theory argues that the cultural artifacts called crafts deserve to be considered “creative” even if they do not seem particularly novel. Crafts, which are frequently created by older people, especially women, are cultural artifacts or heirlooms that can hold meaning for generations. Sociocultural theory can guide the study of late life creativity to expand the possibilities for meaningful engagement in creativity across the lifespan.