Benefits of Art Therapy for Older Adults

Are you considering art therapy for your senior loved one or yourself? Here are just a few of the major benefits this relaxing therapy approach has for older adults: 

Enhanced Cognitive Function

During the senior years, it can be easy to allow cognitive function to diminish. This is especially true of those who suffer from illnesses that keep them from participating in many social or group activities or who live in a housing situation that has a very predictable routine. A lack of requirement for critical thinking can cause a deterioration in the ability to do so over time.

Engaging in a creative process like making art can boost cognitive function. It instills creativity and stimulates the mind. Art therapy is an excellent way to keep the brain in good working order. 

Improved Motor Skills, Increased Coordination, Decreased Inflammation 

Conditions such as arthritis are common in seniors. These conditions can cause the arms and hands to become stiff, tense, drawn, and painful. When this happens, art therapy can be an excellent approach to regaining both mobility and proper blood flow. This can reduce inflammation and take the edge off of chronic pain – all while increasing flexibility and strength. 

Emotional Wellbeing

Though not intended to replace medication or other types of therapy, art therapy can be beneficial in reducing anxiety, lessening symptoms of depression, and relieving stress in patients of all ages. For seniors, it provides a quiet and comfortable outlet for expressing emotions and combating feelings of isolation or frustration that can be brought on by medical complications or age-related conditions. 

Seniors often feel lonely or cut-off from friends and family because of living situations mandated by their health, disabilities, or age. When this happens, many negative emotions can take root. Art therapy is a way to deal with these feelings in a positive, productive way, and also provides a social outlet when lessons are given in groups. This gives seniors social events to look forward to, as well as an outlet for emotional stressors that can result in a better, more balanced life – and better emotional well being. 

Caregivers like those at Thrive USA Home Care Services understand the needs for this type of positive interaction for seniors. For more information on home care services and how they can work around your loved one’s therapy schedule and more, contact Thrive USA today!