Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts (MCA) established Creative Aging programs in 2017 after being one of fifteen organizations in the state of Minnesota to participate in the Seeding Vitality Arts MN initiative. Thanks to generous funding from Aroha Philanthropies MCA teaching artists and administrative staff received training and support to create unique workshops that were offered for minimal fees to Winona area community members who are 55 years or older.

Today MCA continues this important work thanks to the support Aroha Philanthropies, Elizabeth Callendar King Foundation, and Southeastern Minnesota Art Council (SEMAC). MCA also brings arts to individuals and groups of assisted living facilities, nursing homes, and more. For more about Creative Aging in Facilities or to bring a Creative Aging program to you, click here.

Why Arts?

Creative Aging programs are designed to improve the health, well-being, and renewed sense of purpose for older adults. Research from the National Institute on Aging (NIA) – and others – found that social isolation constitutes a major risk factor for morbidity and mortality, especially in older adults. Research has also shown that loneliness may have a physical as well as an emotional impact. For example, people who are lonely frequently have elevated systolic blood pressure.

In addition to these workshops, MCA welcomes Older Adults to explore other opportunities to engage in and observe art through our wide array of classes, exhibits, and performances. MCA can help you re-discover your love for an instrument or start learning one for the first time or just help brighten up a chilly evening by taking in a performance by our Jazz Combos or Dance Repertory Company.