Older people are often excluded from cultural offerings – whether due to limited mobility, a lack of accessibility, 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 the fields of technology, participatory research, and arts and culture developed multisensory solutions to facilitate access to cultural heritage for older people.
At the heart of the project are three so-called “Service Delivery Models” (SDMs), which have been adapted to different needs:
– “The Bag”: This set of digital and analogue aids (including tactile maps, 3D models, accessible tablet functions) makes it possible to explore local sights 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 diverse sensory experiences and promotes social exchange.
– “The Screen”: Guided tours and tours can be experienced regardless of location via a tablet app – an important option for people with limited mobility who can take part in interactive tours and interact live with tour guides and other participants.
The project sets new standards in inclusive cultural education.
Among the 10 European development partners is the Austrian Aid Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired, the oldest and, with more than 6,000 members, the largest self-help organization for the visually impaired. Further information is available at BeauCoup website