No matter where our interests lie, we all practice some form of creation either through our jobs or through our hobbies, and the same can be said for seniors. Plus, for older adults there are benefits to their mind and bodies that can be achieved simply through artistic activities that cause them to use their imagination in order to create. Some experts in the field of art therapy for seniors say that benefits don’t exist unless the art activity is guided by an expert, but don’t let that hold you back, encourage the creative process in your elderly loved one by following these tips:

1. Choose activities suitable to the senior’s level of mobility – although skill really doesn’t play a role in the benefits of artistic expression and seniors, you don’t want to make the experience frustrating for them. Keep a senior’s physical abilities in mind when choosing an activity.

2. Make activities challenging – age doesn’t mean seniors are less capable of creation. Don’t choose activities that are too simple, like those you’d give to a child.

3. Create a quiet environment – to receive the best possible benefits from a creative activity, seniors need a quiet environment where they can simply focus on creating. An area free from distraction will help set the tone for the creative process

4. Think about long-term projects – a quick craft that can be finished in a couple of hours won’t have the same benefits as one that extends over a period of time. Choosing an activity that seniors can think about and go back to day after day will really get the creative juices flowing

5. Work together – remember, even if you’re working on an art project together, don’t take over and don’t try to lead; it’s not about the end result of the creation, it’s about the journey along the way

Sources:

1. Washington Post

2. My Optum Health

3. Associated Content

Image: well.blogs.nytimes.com

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