Tainan Art Museum and NCKU Launch "Ringing Silver Bells Project"

In response to the advent of an aging society, the Tainan Art Museum once again collaborates with the National Cheng Kung University (NCKU) Institute of Gerontology to announce the initiation of the "Ringing Silver Bells Project" and cooperation with the Tainan City Government Civil Affairs Bureau and relevant departments. In the future, through the establishment of elderly-friendly spaces, development and implementation of promotional activities, and integration of shared resources, they aim to promote senior citizen participation in art, develop senior citizen art promotion activities, and cultivate interdisciplinary professionals. The goal is to further expand the practice of museums in promoting elderly-friendly equality and culturally inclusive approaches.

According to statistics, the population aged 65 and over nationwide has reached 17.56%, and Taiwan's population aged 65 and over is estimated to reach 20% of the total population by 2025, officially entering an aging society. This demographic, which drives Taiwan's rapid social and economic development, accumulates experiences and wisdom, making it a vital asset and treasure worth cherishing. Qing-hui Zhao, Chairman of the Tainan Art Museum, stated that Tainan City's coverage rate of long-term care services is not only the highest among the six municipalities but also the first municipality nationwide to establish senior learning centers in each administrative district. The city has received multiple awards from the Ministry of Health and Welfare for its dedication to age-friendly policies. As a social educational institution, the Tainan Art Museum will provide corresponding services in response to changes in the social demographic structure, becoming an essential development direction, and greatly enhancing the city government's efforts in promoting age-friendly policies.

Representing NCKU, President Meng-Ru Shen signed the memorandum of understanding with Ming-Chyi Pai, director of the NCKU Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, and Lin Qiu-fang, director of the Tainan Art Museum. Ming-Chyi Pai expressed gratitude for the long-standing collaboration with the Tainan Art Museum, allowing the elderly to venture out and engage in brain-stimulating artistic experiences. He emphasized the benefits of art in triggering deep-seated memories and emotions, serving as a remedy for depression and dementia. Moreover, he appreciated the museum's provision of excellent learning environments, attracting students to intern at the Tainan Art Museum and gain valuable experiences.

Ming-Chyi Pai, also the director of the NCKU Hospital Dementia Center and chairman of the Greater Tainan Alzheimer's Disease Association, has made significant contributions to promoting art therapy for the elderly and dementia patients. Under his leadership, collaborations with various museums and art galleries have led to successful initiatives like the "LiHA Pass" and the introduction of courses on "Art Intervention for the Elderly and Dementia." These efforts have received positive feedback and contributed to enhancing the quality of life for the elderly and dementia patients. 

The Tainan City Government Civil Affairs Bureau fully supports community art participation activities conducted in collaboration with the Tainan Art Museum. They not only encourage the inclusion of such activities in various neighborhoods and communities but also aim to make the Tainan Art Museum a significant cultural asset for all residents, fostering creativity and vitality. Qiu-fang Lin, director of the Tainan Art Museum, emphasized the museum's commitment to cross-generational interaction and age-friendly equality, positioning it as a pioneer in contemporary museum development trends. With years of experience in promoting art to the elderly, the museum aims to become a vital social space for senior citizens and a hub for promoting senior citizen art. They hope that various sectors of society will actively support this innovative project, benefiting Taiwan's elderly population.

Established in 2006, the NCKU Institute of Gerontology is the first institute in Taiwan to cultivate talents in geriatric practice and research. Emphasizing prevention over treatment, it advocates for aging with grace and dignity. The center trains students to adopt a holistic approach to geriatric healthcare and humanities, focusing on the potential of the elderly as contributors to society and the necessary social conditions to support them.