Museums can play a vital role in creating age-friendly communities that support physical activity, social connection, and intellectual stimulation, all vital parts of keeping your brain healthy as you age. They also provide opportunities for seniors to connect with and contribute to their communities.
We can all embrace becoming lifelong learners to protect our health. In addition to the cognitive benefits, research has shown that consistent mental activity can enhance self-esteem, give you a sense of purpose and hope, and inspire feelings of confidence and competency. Learning, at any age, can also broaden your perspective and connect you to people with different experiences.
One of the best things about museums and zoos is they are usually designed for attendees to participate and engage, and that includes those who may get overwhelmed or agitated easily. Most organizations offer special sensory-friendly events or exhibits that are perfect for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.
We’re featuring a great lineup of events taking place in Chicago throughout August and September. Check out some exciting ones below!
The Art Institute of Chicago
Select Thursdays from 12:00pm–1:00pm
This program will offer opportunities to reflect, contemplate, and engage deeply with artwork and your own internal experience. A trained museum educator will first facilitate close looking and discussion of an artwork followed by a guided meditation reflecting upon a theme presented each session. No prior experience with meditation is required. Stools are provided.
For individuals with dementia, the AIC’s Sensory Map highlights spaces that are typically quieter, less crowded, or less brightly lit.
Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago
Every Tuesday through October from 7:00am–2:00 pm
Every Tuesday this summer, rain or shine, the SOAR Farmers Market will take over the MCA Plaza. Check out the colorful selection of fresh fruits and vegetables, cut and potted flowers, baked goods, cheeses, spices, and more.
Griffin Museum of Science and Industry
Select Sundays from 8:30am–9:30 a.m.
Get exclusive early access to Griffin MSI, allowing you to explore exhibits with modified lighting and sound. Your tickets also include General Admission for the rest of the day, with most Museum experiences remaining in sensory-friendly mode until noon.
Chicago History Museum
Select Sundays from 12:00 pm–2:00 pm
Join author and historian Bernard Turner on this van tour and see the names and contributions of Chicago’s most influential African Americans on the Walk of Fame, landmarks, public art reflecting the histories of the neighborhood, and stories about the ways African Americans shaped the history and culture of this South Side neighborhood.
Harold Washington Library Center
Documentary Club: Time Passages with Director Kyle Henry
Tuesday, August 11 from 5:30pm–7:45pm
Join CPL for a screening of Time Passages, followed by a Q&A discussion with the director, Kyle Henry. In the final months of his mother Elaine’s late-stage dementia, Henry uses his extensive family archive to travel back in time, exploring the complicated bonds of identity, history, and belonging in his large Texas family. Time Passages is a testament to love, legacy and the things that carry us through life’s most challenging times.
Young at Heart: Book Club and Short Story Discussions
Select Wednesdays from 12:00pm–1:30pm
Join the Assistive Resources and Talking Book Center for a book or short story discussion, where everyone is invited to share their thoughts and impressions. Enjoy conversation, connect with fellow readers, and discover new favorites.
Young at Heart: Afternoon Party Games
Select Wednesdays from 12:00pm–1:00pm
Join the Chicago Public Library for a series of in-person events full of fun and relaxation. Come make new friends and reunite with old acquaintances as you play some rounds of classic party games.
Select Mondays from 9:30am– 12:00pm
Enjoy a free cup of coffee while connecting with community resources. Support may be available on topics such as health, housing, and legal services. Everyone is welcome!
Lincoln Park Zoo
The Third Friday of Each Month from 10:15am–11:15am
Memory Enrichment is a welcoming program for people living with dementia and their loved ones and care partners. Socialize with friends of all ages and explore wildlife and nature with zoo staff. Activities include crafts, games, animal chats, music, low-impact movement, and more.
Sound Meditation With Jay Taylor
Select Saturdays from 9:00am–10:00am
Unwind and immerse yourself in a restorative sound meditation facilitated by Jay Taylor. This interactive session blends intention-setting, singing bowls, gentle breathwork, and guided relaxation in a welcoming space. Breathe in fresh morning air, practice self-care, and gaze at skyline views.
Check out this page for updates on sensory-friendly hours at Lincoln Park Zoo.
Brookfield Zoo
Brookfield Zoo offers a Sensory Friendly Family Room, as well as complimentary sensory-friendly kits with large-print maps, name tags, “if lost” ID bracelets, and more.
Find events offered at the Brookfield Zoo here.
Shedd Aquarium
Select Sundays, times vary by exhibit
Calm Waters is an exclusive event for interested guests to explore Shedd Aquarium’s exhibits and experiences in a comfortable and accepting environment. Modifications for Calm Waters include limited capacity, a low-sensory animal spotlight with American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation, and an animal encounter opportunity.
Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
Select Saturdays from 8:30am–9:45am
Join the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum for a rejuvenating class in the Judy Istock Butterfly Haven. Students will leave class feeling energized, balanced, and ready to take their practice off the mat and out into the world. Bring your own mat.
Wednesday, September 2 from 9:00am–12:00pm
Sensory Friendly Mornings allow guests to explore exhibits and experiences in a relaxed and accepting environment with their family members and companions. Modifications include limited capacity, lower light and sound stimuli, and sensory friendly critter connections.
And More!
Want to explore more options? Visit Choose Chicago’s interactive map to find a museum that suits you or your loved one’s interests. And don’t forget to check out the free days for Illinois residents!
Most museums have additional information about accommodations for seniors, sensory-friendly events or exhibits, and resources for people with disabilities on the Accessibility page of their website.
