Building Bonds Through Creativity: A Strategy for Intergenerational Wellness

Building Bonds Through Creativity: A Strategy for Intergenerational Wellness
GetSetUp Blue Logo
Bg Square Inside Shape Decoration White 08 - Accountant X Webflow Template

Art as a Gateway to Purpose and Connection

For older adults, creativity is more than a hobby—it’s a powerful path to connection, self-expression, and mental stimulation. Whether painting, sculpting, or crafting, creative experiences provide a joyful way to stay mentally active and socially engaged.

Art becomes even more powerful when it brings generations together. Projects that encourage creativity with grandchildren or peers help combat loneliness and support a sense of purpose. For organizations serving older adults, offering access to art-based programming is a proven way to support mental wellness, reduce isolation, and create lasting memories.

Barriers That Limit Creative Engagement for Older Adults

Creative expression offers a wide range of wellness benefits, yet many older adults face challenges that prevent them from participating regularly:

  • Intimidation or Lack of Confidence – Many feel they aren’t “artistic enough” or worry about doing it the “right” way.
  • Limited Access to Materials or Instruction – Without nearby programs or affordable supplies, it can be hard to get started.
  • Social Isolation or Low Motivation – Without routine, encouragement, or community, creative interests may fade over time.
  • Few Intergenerational Opportunities – Art projects involving grandchildren or loved ones are rare, despite strong interest and benefits.

According to the National Institute on Aging, participating in the arts supports emotional wellness, cognitive health, and independence in older adults—especially when programs encourage connection and creative confidence.

Removing these barriers through accessible, inclusive art programs helps older adults stay engaged, supported, and inspired.

Why Creative Engagement Matters for Aging-Focused Organizations

For aging services, wellness programs, and intergenerational initiatives, supporting creativity delivers real benefits:

  • Promotes Cognitive Stimulation and Focus – Artistic activities challenge the brain and support lifelong learning.
  • Strengthens Family and Community Bonds – Shared creative experiences offer opportunities for storytelling, laughter, and connection.
  • Boosts Emotional Wellness – Artistic expression offers stress relief, increases self-confidence, and enhances overall happiness.
  • Encourages Ongoing Engagement – Fun, hands-on projects keep participants coming back—and build routine into wellness programs.

By embedding creative programming into their services, organizations can offer holistic engagement that supports mental, emotional, and social well-being—all at once.

How GetSetUp Brings Creativity and Connection to Older Adults

GetSetUp offers interactive, low-barrier art classes that spark curiosity and confidence in older adults—regardless of skill level. Sessions are designed to support both solo creativity and intergenerational bonding.

  • Hands-On Creative Projects – Classes like Chihuly-Inspired Plastic Cup Art show how to transform household materials into colorful art—perfect for solo expression or time with family.
  • Creative Confidence Without Pressure – Programs focus on the process, not perfection, so older adults can enjoy creating without judgment.
  • Purpose-Driven Wellness – Art activities foster mindfulness, engagement, and pride—all key to aging with meaning.
  • Opportunities to Connect Across Generations – Many sessions encourage participation with grandkids, helping families create together and grow closer.

Organizations can easily integrate these creative offerings into their existing wellness or engagement strategies, making it simple to deliver joyful, meaningful programming that supports aging in place and whole-person wellness.

How to Get Started with GetSetUp

Implementing GetSetUp's programs to enhance the well-being of your members is a streamlined process:

Step 1: Select Programs Aligned with Member Needs: Identify and prioritize the programs that address your members' specific challenges and goals:

  • Digital and Health Literacy: Enhance members' understanding of technology and health information.
  • Fall Prevention: Provide strategies to reduce the risk of falls among older adults.
  • Chronic Disease Management: Support self-management of chronic conditions.
  • Independence and Self-Management: Promote skills that enable autonomous living.
  • Caregiving Support: Offer resources for those caring for loved ones.
  • Health Equity Programming: Ensure inclusive health education for all demographics.
  • Social Connectedness: Foster community to combat social isolation.
  • Mental Enrichment: Provide opportunities for cognitive stimulation and growth.

Step 2: Determine Integration Level : Choose how to incorporate GetSetUp into your existing infrastructure:

  • Hosted by GetSetUp: Utilize a dedicated URL and landing page managed by GetSetUp.
  • Embedded Integration: Seamlessly embed classes within your health plan's member portal for a cohesive user experience. Digital Health Platform for Active Agers

Step 3: Customize the Program for Your Organization: Tailor the offerings to reflect your organization's identity and meet member preferences:

  • Class Selection: Choose specific classes and determine the frequency to align with member interests.
  • Curated Series: Develop targeted class series that support your organization's priorities.
  • Engagement Tools: Implement notifications and reminders to encourage participation and discovery.
  • Feedback Mechanisms: Incorporate surveys to gather member insights and assess satisfaction.
  • Multilingual Options: Offer classes in multiple languages to cater to diverse member populations.
  • Brand Integration: Apply your organization's branding, including colors and design elements, for a consistent look and feel.

Step 4: Experience a Live Demonstration: Collaborate with GetSetUp to create a mock-up of the customized platform:

  1. Review and Test: Assess the tailored platform to ensure it meets your expectations and member needs.
  2. Provide Feedback: Share insights to refine the platform for optimal engagement.

Schedule a Consultation: Contact GetSetUp to discuss implementation details and address any questions. For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit GetSetUp Partner Page.

Bring GetSetUp to your organization

We partner with Medicare Advantage plans, dual eligible plans,  healthcare providers, Departments of Health & Human Services, Government aging services and more.