Helping Seniors with Emotional Wellness Through Art Therapy
Maintaining physical and mental health is just as important as we age. However, one health aspect often overlooked in the area of emotional wellness is one's ability to acknowledge, understand, and express emotions. If you care for an older friend or relative, know that there are many ways to build emotional wellness, including the growing field of art therapy.
What Is Art Therapy?
Art therapy is a mental health approach with the potential to help older individuals with common age-related challenges or obstacles through the creation of art. This type of therapy is a recognized approach that can be facilitated by art therapists or clinicians. In fact, these mental health professionals often hold master's degrees or higher in art and therapeutic services for the very purpose of assisting the emotional and mental well-being of aging groups.
Art therapy is about more than making art. It’s an interactive method that engages the body and mind to help individuals with everything from communication and self-esteem to social skills and reduced stress. It can also be fun, so it’s worth encouraging a loved one who is struggling to give it a try.
Benefits Of Art Therapy As We Age
People can choose to engage in art therapy for various reasons. Some people use art therapy to help them cope with stress or anxiety. People who care for seniors with dementia often seek art therapy to help individuals communicate or manage their memory loss. Some research also suggests art therapy, including music therapy, may improve cognitive function and motor skills, especially in those with neurocognitive disorders such as Parkinson’s.
For many folks, art therapy is simply a more creative way to maintain emotional wellness. Not only can it help reduce stress, but it’s an interactive way to express oneself healthily. If you’re interested in art therapy, consider contacting the Royal Life Center in Prescott. They work with clients suffering from addiction and mental health conditions.
Enjoying Art In Prescott, Arizona
While art therapy has specific benefits, you can enjoy many of its benefits without having to qualify or find a licensed art therapist. Prescott is a creative community with a broad range of opportunities to create and view art, no matter who you are.
Creating Art
Seniors looking for an introduction to art in a non-therapeutic setting may enjoy taking a class or workshop at one of these Prescott locations.
- The Art Store offers art classes, demos, and workshops with local artists.
- Board and Brush offers in-person and virtual workshops such as woodworking and painting.
- Art Hive is a studio open to working artists who can host workshops and events.
Viewing Art
Creating art isn’t for everyone. But there are still emotional benefits to surrounding yourself with different types of art. And in this area, there is something for people of all tastes. Consider stopping by with an older family member at one of these local galleries and museums.
- Tis Art Gallery hosts rotating exhibits from all different types of artists, including photographers and sculptors.
- The Phippen Museum is a collection of exhibits honoring the art and culture of the American West.
- Arts Prescott Gallery is a cooperative gallery where you can attend events and purchase work from more than 30 local artists.
Maintaining Emotional Wellness With Visiting Angels
The compassionate team of caregivers at Visiting Angels is dedicated to the physical, mental, and emotional wellness of all our senior clients. One of our most popular at-home care services is companion care, which focuses on improving or maintaining a client’s emotional state by assisting with daily tasks and working to improve self-esteem.
While we’re not a team of licensed art therapists, our caregivers are happy to engage in artistic activities to boost clients’ spirits. Contact us online or call 928-220-4100 to learn more about at-home care services with Visiting Angels.