Difference in predictors and barriers to arts and cultural engagement with age in the United States

A cross-sectional analysis using the Health and Retirement Study

The study examined age-related predictors of participation in arts activities to investigate their benefits on physical and mental health in older adults. Data from the Health and Retirement Study (2014) were used to identify sociodemographic, life satisfaction, social, and arts appreciation predictors of (1) frequency of arts engagement, (2) cultural attendance, (3) difficulty participating in the arts, and (4) interest in not participating in cultural events. The results showed that gender, educational level, wealth, dissatisfaction with ageing and instrumental daily activities (iADLs) influence the frequency of arts engagement. The results indicate that it is important to ensure accessibility to artistic and cultural activities for the wellbeing of older people.