Maritime Museum workshop explores ways to enhance museum experiences for elderly men

A group of elderly men, the target audience for the CoMe Stronger project, participated in a workshop at the Rauma Maritime Museum on Thursday, May 8th. The aim of the event was to collect their thoughts and experiences on how museum services could better attract them and other older men. The day began with a shared lunch, followed by a guided tour of the museum. During the tour, lively discussions arose around maritime history and the museum’s collections. In the afternoon, the group took part in a workshop where they reflected on what interests them in museums, what motivates them to visit, and how they can best be reached through communication.

Several key themes emerged from the workshop. Participants emphasized the importance of expert guidance and interactive elements for a rewarding museum experience. The Rauma Maritime Museum received a positive review for its guided tour and cozy atmosphere. Engaging short videos, interactive tasks, and good exhibitions were also mentioned as positive aspects.

Communication and outreach were also discussed. Facebook was considered a useful platform, alongside information distributed through various associations. Local radio interviews were seen as a potential way to reach the target group. In addition to radio, participants mentioned local newspapers, free distribution papers, and publications from associations, some of which may occasionally be looking for content.

There was also a desire for clear and accessible information about local museums on city and municipal websites. In general, museum websites were encouraged to be more dynamic and inviting. The group also reflected on the fact that while locals might already be aware of museums in their area, attracting visitors from outside the region remains a challenge. Interestingly, even among this museum-friendly group, many had never heard of the Rauma Maritime Museum before.

Accessibility was highlighted as essential factor in museums. Accessibility also means having the energy and capacity to take in what’s on display. For instance, museum halls could benefit from having resting spots where visitors can sit down and reflect on what they’ve seen.

A particularly insightful discovery was that if the museum’s theme doesn’t resonate, a visit is unlikely – unless it’s a group excursion with good company!

The workshop’s findings provide valuable insights for the CoMe Stronger project, which aims to develop innovative museum service products that appeal to elderly men and lower the threshold for their museum visits. The project’s workshops in Finland are now complete, and the focus will shift to developing service products based on the feedback from the workshops, user panels and service product pilots. Meanwhile, across the Baltic Sea in Estonia, workshops are on the horizon this summer – stay tuned for brilliant ideas!