Access Creative Aging
The Access Creative Aging initiative is designed to provide Delaware’s older population with opportunities for artistic expression, social interaction, and enhanced mental and physical health through meaningful engagement in the arts.
Older adults have vital contributions to make to society as creators and community members. Abundant evidence shows that arts participation improves the emotional well-being of older adults, supports good health, strengthens social bonds, and brings a heightened experience of purpose and joy to our lives as we mature. However, older adults all too often experience the effects of ageism, isolation and limited access to meaningful arts learning experiences. State arts agencies can help to address these gaps by facilitating creative aging programming as an antidote to isolation, an affirmation of life and a pathway to flourishing for older adults.
What is Creative Aging?
Creative aging programming thrives in community settings where older adults gather around learning, social life, and enrichment. The Creative Aging Arts Education Model is proven to improve older adults’ health and wellness, bringing a revived sense of self and purpose to their lives. While these instructional programs are responsive, they share key elements. These programs:
- Are led by paid, practicing teaching artists (non-volunteers)
- Build artistic skills over time (across all disciplines)
- Integrate social engagement
- Include a culminating event to publicly celebrate older adults’ creativity
“I always knew I could learn new skills, but after being in a bubble for over a year, it was great to be in a situation in which I had to do so and was successful. As one grows older, this becomes more in question. I try to learn new things periodically so I don’t forget I can.” – Participant
Support for Delaware’s Creative Aging Program
The FY26 Access Creative Aging program is funded by the Delaware Division of the Arts, the National Endowment for the Arts, and a federally funded American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Healthy Aging grant from the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services, Division of Services for Aging and Adults with Physical Disabilities.
The program is provided by the Delaware Division of the Arts in partnership with the Delaware Division of Libraires and the Delaware Division of Services for Aging and Adults with Physical Disabilities.
Contact Us
Kristin Pleasanton
Deputy Director
302-577-8284
kristin.pleasanton@delaware.gov
National Resources
Learn more
Program Locations
The Delaware Division of the Arts and the Delaware Department of Libraries have joined forces to make free creative aging programs accessible to communities across the state. Through this partnership, a diverse range of arts classes are being offered at public libraries statewide. This initiative not only enriches the cultural landscape of Delaware but also ensures that residents of all ages and backgrounds have the opportunity to engage with the arts in a meaningful way. By leveraging the extensive network of public libraries, the collaboration is helping to foster creativity, community engagement, and lifelong learning throughout the state.
In 2026, the Division expanded our partnership with the Delaware Division of Services for Aging and Adults with Physical Disabilities to bring these free programs to senior centers statewide.
How to Find A Class
Delawareans, aged 55 and over, are encouraged to explore the wide array of arts and cultural events available in their communities. To discover the exact listings of upcoming creative aging programs, contact your local library or senior center. You can also see a list of grant-funded creating aging programs here.
Looking for other arts events near you? Look at DelawareScene.com! This easy-to-use resource offers a comprehensive calendar of events, allowing you to find activities that match your interests and schedule. Whether you’re looking to participate in a creative workshop, attend a live performance, or simply explore new cultural experiences, your local library and DelawareScene.com are your gateways to engaging and enriching opportunities across the state.
Grant Program
Creative Aging Grant – For Lifetime Arts Trained Participants
The Delaware Division of the Arts provides funding to support creative aging programs that actively engage 55+ adults in the creative process with a professional artist.
Access Creative Aging Goals
- Provide opportunities for learning and creative expression
- Promote good physical and cognitive health
- Strengthen social bonds
- Improve emotional well-being
Eligible organizations may request funding to fully support creative aging programs that actively engage 55+ adults in the creative process utilizing the visual, literary, or performing arts. The programs are to be led by teaching artists trained in creative aging who are current members of the Delaware Artist Roster. Creative aging programs are presented as sequential learning over the course of eight (8) weeks and include a culminating event. The weekly classes are 60-120 minutes in length and may accommodate up to fifteen (15) participants.
Read more about this grant program, and see if you’re eligible to participate
Please direct all inquiries concerning Access Creative Aging to:
Kristin Pleasanton
Deputy Director
302-577-8284
Kristin.Pleasanton@delaware.gov