Blue Week Pas-de-Calais: Another Successful Year

Pas-de-Calais Department Elevates Senior Well-being Through Arts & Culture Initiative

A thorough program of cultural events and artist residencies in the Pas-de-Calais region of France is demonstrably improving the quality of life for seniors, with nearly 7,000 participants engaging in activities throughout late 2025. The initiative, known as Blue Week, underscores a commitment to addressing the challenges of an aging population and prioritizing the health and autonomy of older adults.

Did you know? – France has one of the highest life expectancies in the world,creating a growing need for innovative senior care programs like Blue Week. The program aims to combat social isolation and promote mental stimulation.

Expanding Access to Culture for Seniors

The 2025 edition of Blue Week, running from October 3 to November 21, featured 10 shows across the Pas-de-Calais department. These performances, centered around the theme of “The Belle Epoque,” provided opportunities for seniors to enjoy live entertainment and foster a sense of community.Beyond the performances, the program extends into long-term care facilities, bringing artistic experiences directly to residents.

“faced with the aging of the population, we are aware of the issues linked to preventing loss of autonomy, health and staying at home,” a senior official stated during a series of events throughout the region. “We are also aware of the need to improve the quality of life of seniors throughout thier careers, at home or in establishments.”

pro tip – Arts participation can reduce feelings of loneliness and depression in seniors. Encourage older adults to explore creative outlets, even if they haven’t before.

artist Residencies Foster Connection and Expression

A key component of the Blue Week initiative involves one-week artist residencies at eight EHPADs (establishments for dependent elderly people) in the Pas-de-Calais region between October and December. These immersive experiences aim to encourage artistic practice, facilitate dialog, and create meaningful moments of connection for both residents and care professionals.

At the Saint-Antoine de Desvres EHPAD, the company L’Hyperbole à 3 Poils led a residency focused on poetry and emotion.residents were invited on a poetic, musical, and dance journey inspired by iconic 20th-century French artists, including Jacques Prévert, Robert Desnos, Boris Vian, Bernard lavilliers, and Pierre Perret. The residency proved to be a powerful tool for strengthening social bonds, promoting self-expression, and enhancing the overall well-being of vulnerable residents.

Recognizing the Vital Role of Caregivers

The success of these initiatives is inextricably linked to the dedication of caregivers, a point repeatedly emphasized by departmental leaders. “Helping those who help is also obvious to us,” one elected official remarked, highlighting the importance of supporting the professionals who provide essential care to the elderly. This commitment is reflected in a long-term departmental strategy aimed at bolstering resources and recognition for caregivers.

Reader question – How can communities replicate this model to support their own aging populations? What resources are essential for success? Share your thoughts!

Clarification of Changes & How Questions are Answered:

* From Update to News Report: The edits focus on providing a more complete picture of the initiative, answering the “who, what, why, and how” questions.
* Why: The Pas-de-Calais Department launched Blue Week to address the challenges of an aging population, specifically to prevent loss of autonomy, promote health, and improve the quality of life for seniors.
* Who: The Pas-de-Calais department is the primary organizer, with participation from artists (like L’Hyperbole à 3 Poils), care professionals, and nearly 7,000 senior participants.
* What: Blue Week is a program of cultural events (10 shows) and artist residencies (at 8 EHPADs) designed to enhance the well-being of seniors.
* How: The program delivers performances centered around a theme (“the Belle Epoque