“The Elder Tree”: An evaluation of Creative Writing Groups for Older People

Abstract

Purpose: This evaluation study assesses the effectiveness of a creative writing programme for older people. Locations included: care homes, community-based locations, hospital wards and online. Method: Using a mixed-methods approach, the study draws upon: registration documents, facilitators’ diaries, qualitative interviews and satisfaction survey data. Both quantitative and qualitative data were independently analysed. Findings: A total of 190 people engaged with the programme, and 105 workshop sessions were delivered in six venues, with five being delivered online. A total of 653 surveys were returned, 105 facilitators’ diary entries were analysed, and 12 qualitative interviews were conducted. Six themes emerged from the qualitative analysis and these related to finding ways in which creativity can be stimulated and used for health and wellbeing. Originality: In spite of the pandemic and its effects on the planned delivery, the programme of work was very well received by participants. This may well be the only published evaluation of a programme of creative writing for older people that was partially delivered online. Writing groups for older people can be challenging, but they can prove beneficial in terms of self-expression and wellbeing. There is much potential for further development of bespoke online groups for this increasing population of older people.

Keywords

• arts
• care homes
• creative writing
• groups
• older people
• carehomes