Mac’s
What is it?
The MACS museum of contemporary art in Grand-Hornu is reaching out to people with Alzheimer’s disease as part of its ‘Meetme@MACS’ initiative. In this three-part series, the museum first makes two visits to a day centre for people with Alzheimer’s disease, before the visitors themselves come to the museum to take part in a workshop.
Why is it important? / How can it help the professionals of the cultural sector?
Improving quality of life
The project offers people with Alzheimer’s disease an opportunity to stimulate their memory and reconnect with their identity through art, helping to improve their quality of life. Artistic activities can reduce anxiety, depression and social isolation, symptoms frequently associated with dementia.
Developing skills and expertise
Professionals in the cultural sector gain valuable skills from working with a diverse audience, including those with special needs such as Alzheimer’s patients. This includes training in adaptive communication, sensitive presentation and empathetic engagement.
Audience expansion and inclusion
By integrating programmes like Meetme@MACS, museums and other cultural institutions can attract and serve a wider and more diverse audience. This demonstrates a commitment to inclusion and can increase attendance while enriching the cultural experience for all visitors.
Project /organisation name
Where (country / region)
Type of institution
Permanent or temporary exhibition / project
Date
Physical / digital
Public targeted
People with Alzheimer’s disease
Device/ inclusive features
Storytelling, works that can be touched, work on the emotions generated
Collaborations / partners
- Chêne aux haies
- Psychiatric hospital centre
Funding
- Wallonia-Brussels Federation
- Province of Hainaut
- Walloon Government
- ICM, International Council of Museums
- National Lottery
Replicability/adaptability
The Meetme@MACS concept can be adapted to different cultural environments by selecting works of art that resonate with local audiences and training museum staff on best practice for interacting with Alzheimer’s patients.
Photos / videos to illustrate the good practice
Results / impact
Interacting with art can stimulate the memory and cognitive functions of Alzheimer’s patients, offering a valuable means of maintaining or improving their quality of life. Works of art can evoke memories and emotional responses, contributing to patients’ mental engagement.
Artistic activities are often therapeutic, reducing anxiety and depression, and increasing emotional well-being. Participating in guided and interactive tours can also promote a sense of social inclusion and normality, often lost in the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.
The project encourages social interaction among patients and with museum staff, which is crucial for people who are often isolated because of their condition. These interactions can enhance their social skills and improve their mood.