January 9, 2026
Creativity is often associated with youth, innovation, and artistic talent. Yet growing evidence shows that creativity plays an equally powerful role later in life—helping older people remain mentally sharp, emotionally resilient, socially connected, and physically active.
Studies have long documented the benefits of creative engagement among older adults. These include improved mental clarity, heightened self-awareness, better emotional regulation, and enhanced self-esteem. More recent research highlights creativity’s positive impact on health and well-being in psychophysical terms. Creative activities can reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, strengthen a sense of inner control, and increase overall life satisfaction. They have also been shown to help manage depression and hypochondria, while stimulating social involvement and even improving reaction time—key elements of healthy ageing.
Creativity in Action: Supporting Older People in Fort Portal
At the Bishop Magambo Counsellor Training Institute (BMCTI) in Fort Portal, Uganda, these insights are being put into practice. Since 2017, BMCTI has been supported by Viatores Christi (VC), a partnership that has strengthened community-based psychosocial programmes and expanded support for vulnerable populations.
In recent years, this collaboration has placed particular focus on elderly people living in and around the Fort Portal area—many of whom face isolation, poverty, declining health, and limited access to support services. Together, BMCTI and VC have worked to improve the quality of life of older people by promoting dignity, independence, and holistic well-being.
Through this partnership, BMCTI has seen first-hand how handicraft-making can transform the lives of elderly participants. Engaging in crafts helps reduce loneliness, keeps the mind active, enhances physical dexterity, and supports cognitive function. Just as importantly, it creates opportunities for social connection, productivity, and emotional fulfilment.
Recognising these benefits, BMCTI—supported by VC—now actively promotes handicraft-making among older people by providing basic materials, encouragement, and links to community groups and markets. Many elderly participants are now producing woven baskets, mats, and decorative items using locally available materials—turning creativity into both therapy and livelihood.
Anna’s Story: From Isolation to Independence
Anna, aged 68, is one of many older people whose life has been transformed through this programme.
A widow living in Katumaba Village, Fort Portal, Anna had been living alone since her husband passed away several years ago. She was also responsible for caring for her two grandchildren. Over time, the burden of providing for her household, combined with social isolation, led to increasing loneliness, withdrawal, and mild depression.
Through the psychosocial and nutritional support programme implemented by BMCTI with support from VC, Anna was encouraged to attend a daycare centre for older people. There, she participated in group exercises, storytelling sessions, and both group and individual therapy. Gradually, she began to regain confidence, emotional stability, and a renewed sense of belonging.
The programme also introduced Anna to kitchen gardening. She now grows her own vegetables, improving her diet and overall health. She reports reduced joint pain, increased energy, and better sleep—small but significant changes that have greatly improved her quality of life.
Turning Creativity into Opportunity
As part of the project, Anna was encouraged to take up handicraft-making. With support from BMCTI and VC, she received materials to make baskets and joined the Katumba Tukore Hamu basket group. Through this group, Anna gained access to international markets, enabling her to sell her baskets abroad.
The income she now earns helps her support her household and pay school fees for her two grandchildren. Beyond the financial benefits, Anna describes feeling emotionally stable, less stressed, and more hopeful about the future.
More Than Crafts—A Path to Dignity and Purpose
Anna’s journey illustrates that creativity in older age is about far more than producing beautiful items. It is about restoring dignity, purpose, and independence. Through handicrafts, older people experience the well-documented mental, emotional, and physical benefits of creativity—while also gaining opportunities to contribute meaningfully to their families and communities.
The long-standing partnership between BMCTI and Viatores Christi continues to demonstrate how targeted, compassionate support can help older people not only cope, but thrive. With the right encouragement and resources, later life can be a time of creativity, connection, and renewed possibility.
Picture shows Anna sharing her experiences of her handicraft work with the elderly during a day care gathering.