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“The arts are a critical component of healthcare. Expressive art is a tool to explore, develop and practice creativity as a means to wellness.” ~ Wellarts Association
There is a growing amount of scientific evidence showing that art enhances brain function and well-being.
That’s why it’s so important for older adults to participate in some kind of artistic or creative activity at least once per week.
There’s a common misconception that an individual needs to be artistic or talented to participate in art. That’s just not true. In fact, those that aren’t artistically-inclined may get the most benefit from making art since it’s activating a part of their brain that they don’t often use.
Art has been shown to enhance memory, cognition and even consciousness in the brain. Additionally, it can also improve mood, dispel anxiety and depression, and have all the same effects as meditation.
Recent neurological research found that making art can improve cognitive functions by producing both new neural pathways and thicker, stronger dendrites. Therefore, art enhances cognitive reserve which helps the brain actively compensate for pathology by using more efficient brain networks or alternative brain strategies.
Making or even viewing art causes the brain to continue to reshape, adapt, and restructure, thus expanding the potential to increase brain reserve capacity.
The list of the benefits of making and enjoying art is surprisingly long (and ever-growing):
- Promotes relaxation
- Provides a sense of control
- Promotes socialization
- Dispels anxiety and depression
- Encourages playfulness
- Improves brain function
- Stimulates the senses
- Fosters a strong sense of identity
- Boosts self-esteem
- Reduces boredom
- Provides a sense of purpose
There are many ways to be creative and expressive with art, but a few popular ones are painting, drawing, pottery, jewelry making, woodworking and music.
Did you know that our community offers many ways for our residents to get creative? Our activity calendar is brimming with regular planned activities encouraging creativity and artistic expression.
Call us today to schedule a tour and discuss our many enriching amenities.
