There are many activities that can be both a source of comfort and good for your health. Art therapy for the elderly has been the subject of much interest in recent years. This is because of its positive effects on the mental well-being of older adults. In fact, studies have found that seniors who do art have fewer doctor’s visits, better physical health, and require less medication.
What is art therapy?
Art therapy employs the creative arts to assist people in dealing with mental and physical stress through comprehension, management, and expression. According to research, even though professional art therapists frequently administer this type of therapy, many people find that taking regular art classes has a similar impact.
Many individuals believe that artistic activities like painting and drawing are only hobbies, yet research indicates that art therapy might be a beneficial strategy for enhancing senior citizens’ physical and emotional well-being. Art therapists work with older citizens to resolve health imbalances via various artistic mediums, employing motion and expression to help elders go back to their daily routines.
What are its benefits?
Improved Cognitive Function
Seniors who partake in this type of therapy are encouraged to create art in any medium they want. Their senses are heightened and made more active thanks to this action. It improves a person’s ability to think when they experiment with art. That’s why practising this activity makes it easier to form quick neural connections in the brain that may have slowed down due to ageing.
Improved Memory
Museum visits, painting, sculpture, and many other forms of art therapy are extremely beneficial and can truly aid those who are suffering from memory loss. According to a study conducted by the Alzheimer’s Disease Center in the US, art therapy works with people who are suffering from Alzheimer’s by taking advantage of brain regions that are least affected. This has a significant effect on how easily they can retrieve their memories.
Improved Mood
Seniors who practice creating art report feeling less stressed, anxious, and depressed. According to studies, seniors who engaged in creative activities had reduced levels of sadness and loneliness and were generally happier.
Loss of hearing and eyesight due to aging might result in negative emotions and tension in seniors. For those who are having trouble relaxing and focusing on happy emotions, drawing objects with pencils or paint can be helpful. This type of therapy can help elders deal with these problems more effectively and give them constructive outlets for their frustration.
Increased Social Interaction
A terrific approach to interacting with others is through art therapy. Seniors can connect with people who share their interests and with whom they can relate. They can broaden their social circle and overcome loneliness thanks to these relationships. It can be incredibly therapeutic to talk to others who can relate to and understand you. People who use art therapy can develop deep connections with others that can extend way beyond the classroom.
Older Australians who have a hobby or interest in art can benefit from it in many ways. Through the fun of creating, you will find that you will enjoy a higher quality of life!
