Healing Through Art: The Benefits of Art Therapy for Seniors

Here at Blue Harbor Senior Living, our communities plan many wonderful activities for the residents to enjoy. From yoga to book clubs to happy hours, there is always something for everyone to enjoy!

Each activity has some type of joy-inducing and health-inducing benefit. One of our favorite creative activities? Art!

Not only is art fun and creative, but it has many therapeutic benefits. Art-related activities are helpful for all of our residents, and can be especially therapeutic for residents in our Memory Care Programs.

In this edition of the True Blue blog, let’s learn how art brings about healing and joy!

What Is Art Therapy?

Art therapy integrates the creative arts as a way to provide therapeutic relief to those suffering from a variety of emotional or cognitive disorders, such as depression, anxiety, memory loss, illness, or PTSD. 

The meditative, relaxation-inducing benefits of art therapy have become very popular, as well! In fact, we are seeing more and more bookstores stocking their shelves with adult coloring books. It’s truly a soothing activity!

Benefits of Art Therapy

Trigger Positive Memories

Creative expression allows us to feel more in touch with ourselves, triggering positive memories while reducing feelings of disorientation and loneliness. Studies show that constant engagement in art can improve quality of life even among older individuals with Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.

Enhanced Cognitive and Motor Functions

Arts and crafts require us to use our eyes and hands to create. This requires us to continue developing and strengthening our fine motor skills. By continuing to engage our hand-eye coordination, we’re improving our cognitive and physical wellbeing.

Reduced Anxiety

Art is shown to help reduce feelings of anxiety and depression. Creating art can bring us into the moment and create wonderful feelings of joy.

Accomplishment!

Creating something always gives us a great sense of accomplishment. This can help to boost our self-esteem, giving us a great mood boost!

Fun!

And last but not least, art is FUN! It’s a fantastic way to meet new friends and develop greater creative expression. Plus, you never know: it could bring you love, too! In fact, that is exactly what happened in this True Blue love story.

How We Approach Art Therapy

We don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Where one resident may feel at home with a paint brush, another may prefer creative writing or knitting. We always try to mix it up by providing multiple arts and crafts activities for residents to enjoy. Variety goes a long way!

Experience the Magic

Would you like to experience one of our arts and crafts sessions firsthand? We’d love to have you! Schedule a tour with any of the communities, and they’ll be glad to have you participate in our many wonderful activities! Reach out to your True Blue team to get the conversation started. Thanks for reading your True Blue blog; until next time!