Music and art have been part of human life since the beginning of our history. Every culture around the world has its own unique forms of song, dance, paintings, poetry and more. Far from being just entertainment, research shows that actively participating in creative activities provides many benefits for both mind and body, especially as we grow older.
How the Arts Enrich Our Lives
- Creates joy and improves mood
- Reduces stress and anxiety
- Stimulates brain activity
- Boosts memory and cognition
- Promotes social connection
- Aids coordination and movement
- Provides a sense of purpose
Science tells us our brains are wired to respond positively to music and art. When we hum along to a tune, move in time with a beat, or absorb the colors and textures of a painting, specialized nerves in our ears, eyes and other senses pick up these inputs and carry signals to the parts of the brain linked to pleasure, motivation, learning and motor control. As a result, our bodies release feel-good chemicals like dopamine and serotonin that lift our spirits, relax our muscles and focus our attention.
Music Therapy for Healthy Aging
The field of music therapy uses the science behind music’s influence on the brain to achieve goals like managing pain, improving speech and enhancing memory in those facing health conditions. A certified therapist designs personalized sessions where patients may sing familiar songs, play basic rhythms or listen to meaningful melodies. Research on music therapy shows it can:
- Reduce chronic pain from arthritis, neuropathy and more
- Increase movement for those with Parkinson’s disease
- Improve mood and decrease agitation for dementia patients
- Enhance communication skills after stroke or brain injury
- Provide comfort during end-of-life care
In particular, musical memory remains largely intact when other cognition falters, meaning music can often penetrate the fog of Alzheimer’s to help connect with a person’s essential self. Singing classic tunes or childhood lullabies with a loved one encourages joyful social interaction and may temporarily help anchor them in the present moment.
Expressive Arts and Aging Well
Beyond formal therapy, participating in expressive arts provides seniors many benefits related to physical, social and mental wellness. Taking an art or dance class at the local senior center offers a fun outlet for creativity and an opportunity to make friends with peers. Research shows that learning something new and complex like painting, pottery or playing an instrument creates new connections between brain cells that compensate for those lost due to aging and disease.
Even for those who have limited mobility, activities like writing poetry or doing crafts can provide a meaningful way to pass the time. When artmaking becomes meditative, it may lower stress hormones like cortisol and raise endorphins that block pain signals. The act of producing artwork to gift or display for others generates a sense of purpose and pride.
One study found that independent older adults who regularly engaged with the arts had better health, used less medication and made fewer doctor visits compared to their non-participating peers. In essence, creative outlets enhance quality of life by nourishing the human spirit.
The Healing Environment
Beyond activities that actively engage residents, administrators work hard to create a visually stimulating healing environment at senior living communities. Research guided principles shape the architectural details, interior design and outdoor landscaping to have a positive physiological impact. Elements known to decrease agitation in dementia patients like easily navigated halls, large windows with garden views and areas displaying residents’ artwork all play a role in promoting comfort and safety.
Calming colors and lighting that shifts subtly with daylight rhythms helps entrain circadian cycles for better sleep. Ample common spaces allow friends to gather for musical events and art shows that connect to community traditions and spark nostalgic memories. Areas to appreciate nature with bird feeders, flowering plants or rambling paths give peace of mind during solo reflection. By thoughtfully curating this enriched sensory experience, older adults can thrive within an oasis specially tailored to support their needs.
Lifelong Learning Through Arts Engagement
Ideally, creative living starts early and carries through the decades, with each life stage prompting new discoveries. School art classes build foundational skills, while young adults may find their muse experimenting with photography or joining a band. Raising children introduces crafts and campfire singalongs, then as careers wind down, some rediscover a passion for pottery or writing.
Far from having an expiration date, many iconic artists and musicians created their most profound works in later life. Abstract painter Georgia O’Keeffe captured the desert’s spare beauty in her 80s while bluesman Muddy Waters revitalized his career with Grammy-winning albums in his 70s. Living in an environment that encourages creative growth at any age allows the timeless cycle of inspiration to flourish.
At Westminster Oaks, a non-profit senior living community near Orlando, residents enjoy access to arts studios, musical events and multimedia classes right on campus. Unique spaces like a woodshop, art studio, piano lounge and library offer both scheduled activities and informal gatherings. Their Lifelong Learning program taught by residents and outside experts covers diverse topics from opera to ikebana flower arranging. With creativity woven into everyday living, Westminster Oaks sets the stage for healthy, engaged longevity.
Conclusion: Let Your Creativity Shine
The many physical, emotional and social benefits provided by active participation in music, art and other creative outlets are supported by an ever-growing body of research. Beyond structured therapy, we now recognize that integrating arts engagement across the lifespan may protect brain health and improve quality of life as we age.
For those seeking sensory stimulation and a fruitful art lifestyle that unlocks their potential, discover if this is right in your neighborhood. From community centers to specialized campuses like Westminster Oaks, resources abound to unleash creative living. As the saying goes, “You are never too old to set another goal or dream a new dream” – so why not make it a beautiful one?
