Examining the Role of Cultural and Artistic Practices and Policy Strategies for Enhancing the Well-being of Elderly Population in the Context of Demographic Imbalance

This study examines the association between cultural and artistic engagement and the well-being of the elderly. Utilizing data from the 2022 National Survey of Cultural and Artistic Activities and the National Leisure Activity Survey, the analysis focuses on two demographic groups: early older adults (aged 55-64) and older adults (aged 65 and above). The findings reveal that overall participation in cultural and artistic activities remains relatively low among older adults. The analysis of the 2022 National Survey of Cultural and Artistic Activities indicates that across all artistic genres, between approximately 46% and over 90% of respondents had no prior experience. Notably, engagement in cultural and artistic activities, particularly in literature, visual arts, and music, significantly declined with advancing age. Moreover, a latent profile analysis based on the 2022 National Leisure Activity Survey identified four distinct participation patterns: “diverse participation activists,” “cultural and sports activity-oriented,” “hobby-focused,” and “rest-oriented.” Among these, individuals classified as “diverse participation activists” and “cultural and sports activity-oriented” exhibited significantly higher levels of happiness compared to those in the “hobby-focused” and “rest-oriented” groups. These findings empirically underscore the positive impact of active cultural and artistic participation on the well-being of older adults. To enhance engagement in cultural and artistic activities among this population, it is essential to develop educational programs that facilitate lifelong participation, fostering the accumulation of leisure experience and cultural capital from an early stage. Additionally, cultural and artistic activities should be recognized as instrumental in promoting older adults’ health, social connectivity, and overall quality of life, warranting policy initiatives that support their integration into aging-related well-being strategies.