Creative Outlets for Senior Well-Being
When was the last time you got creative?
Painting, drawing, sewing, or any other type of creative expression promotes seniors’ health and happiness. According to Forbes, creative outlets can:
- Reduce stress and anxiety
- Slow your heart rate
- Reduce dementia and sharpen your senses
- Improve your immunity
- Boost brain power
Taking a class or visiting an art gallery also allows seniors to learn new skills and socialize.
Which Creative Outlet Is Best For You?
Want to reap these benefits and more?
Keep reading to learn some of the best creative outlets for older adults.
Playing an Instrument
Do the sounds and tempos of your favorite songs lift your spirit? If so, consider learning how to play a musical instrument. Music is a powerful creative outlet and allows you to express your feelings through melody. Studies have also found that seniors who play an instrument have better cognitive functioning and can reduce their risk of dementia.
Research some places that offer music lessons in your area. There are actually quite a few in the Bartlesville area. Or, if you prefer, you can learn online through a live or recorded class. You can also consider joining your church choir if singing is more your speed.
Write It Out
Journaling is a powerful tool for navigating your emotions in times of crisis. It’s also a great way to express gratitude and focus on everything you’re thankful for. Additionally, writing can alleviate stress and improve cognition.
Find a journal that you love and keep it by your bed or on your desk. Devote 10 minutes each day to journaling. Don’t be afraid to write about anything and everything.
Interested in creative writing? Join a creative writing or poetry class. Call your local community college or library to see if they offer such courses.
The Bartlesville Public Library also offers its Creative Corner, a space to craft with fun tools like the Cricut Maker, Expression, and Press. You can reserve the room at no cost as a library member.
Plant a Garden
Creative outlets aren’t just reserved for painting, writing, or playing music. Seniors can also express themselves in other ways, such as planting a garden. Growing flowers or fresh herbs gives you a chance to get outside and enjoy fresh air and sunshine. It also promotes physical activity and can improve your eating habits. Did someone say fresh fruits and veggies?
Don’t have space for an outdoor garden? Consider growing an indoor herb garden. These don’t take up much space and are perfect for seniors who live in apartments.
Attend an Art Gallery
Love admiring artwork? Invite your spouse, children, or friends to visit an art gallery with you. There are plenty of great galleries in and near Bartlesville, OK, including:
Visiting an art gallery may get your creative juices flowing and inspire you to make something beautiful.
Bartlesville Seniors, Let’s Get Creative!
Creative outlets have huge health benefits for seniors. Whether you want to plant a garden, visit a gallery, or attend a drawing class, Visiting Angels of Bartlesville, OK, can help! Our in-home caregivers provide reliable transportation and compassionate companion care services to seniors throughout Bartlesville, Dewey, Nowata, and Ramona.
Contact us today at (918) 333-7400 to learn what we can do for you.