Older people are often excluded from cultural offerings - be it due to limited mobility, lack of barrier-free access or social barriers. The European research project "BeauCoup - Building Active User Experiences to Bring Culture to the People", which was completed at the end of 2024, addressed precisely this challenge. A consortium of ten European institutions from technology, participatory research and art and culture developed multisensory solutions to facilitate access to cultural heritage for older people.
At the heart of the project were three so-called “Service Delivery Models” (SDMs), which were adapted to different needs:
– “The Bag”: This set of digital and analogue aids (including tactile maps, 3D models, barrier-free tablet functions) makes it possible to explore local attractions independently.
– “The Box”: The focus here is on shared experiences. From enlarged prints to taste and smell samples to virtual pop-up exhibitions, “The Box” opens up a variety of sensory experiences and promotes social exchange.
– “The Screen”: Guided tours and tours can be experienced regardless of location using a tablet app – an important option for people with reduced mobility who can take part in interactive tours and exchange ideas live with tour guides and other participants.
The project set new standards in inclusive cultural education. Further information on the BeauCoup website