Nourishing the Mind: Seniors Getting Creative Engaging in creative expression is like jumpstarting the brain. There is a universe of healthy benefits to our grey matter when we paint, make music, dance, write, sing or use a potters' wheel. Tapping into those creative juices helps to keep our brains healthy as we age. Splashing paint on canvas oceans or sewing the eyes of fabric peacocks are rejuvenating mindfulness exercises for seniors. Exciting new research shows that ongoing creative activity can enhance the overall functioning of the older brain. Many programs on the Peninsula help seniors to explore their creative sides, giving them an opportunity to nourish their spirit and expand their minds. Every Friday, I give my brain a "spa day." As a participant in a therapeutic art program, I cherish that time of immersing myself in rivers of colour and giving life to the creatures and oddities of my imagination. The feeling of release is intoxicating, as I free myself from all worldly things and savour a sense of being healed from within. The research gives substance to my sensations, explaining how creative activities foster mental wellness in seniors. Philips Lifeline highlights the life-affirming aspect of creative expression: "Active participation in creative endeavours, the process of exploring new possibilities through problem-solving and building new products or outcomes, can greatly benefit both physical and mental health for seniors." Lifeline suggests that people get more creative as they age, as they turn wisdom and experience into a form of artful genius. In these advanced stages of human development, "creative brilliance" becomes attainable. The Lifeline authors refer to a study that compares the health impacts to seniors of participating in a professionally led chorale group against the wellness level of non-participants. The singers enjoyed less time with doctors, fewer falls, lower medication usage, and reduced levels of depression. The article cites other research showing the positive impact of creative expression in the lives of elders, such as lower anxiety levels and improved life satisfaction. One mind-boggling discovery is that creative mental challenges can actually change the brain: "It is altered through the formation of new synapses, the contact points between cells. This improves communication across cells, in turn opening up the chance for new ideas and expanded thinking." According to the online article Benefits of Creative Activities for Seniors: "Participating in art and craft activities can help stabilize heart rate and hormone levels. It also stimulates the release of endorphins that contribute to overall well-being and happiness." Because they demand mental focus and concentration, creative activities keep the older brain active, engaged, and fit. Overall, seniors are rewarded with improved mental health and selfesteem plus a renewed sense of hopeful purpose.
by Doreen Marion Gee The creative juices are flowing at Sidney Care Home. "Music is a big part of our creativeness at Sidney Care Home. Residents with end stage dementia, who otherwise do not communicate verbally, will be seen tapping their feet or hands. We have musical instruments for residents to enjoy and participate" explains Alison Marshall, Director of Care. Even conversation is an art form: "The men's group has become very popular and they normally have doughnuts and chat about anything and everything." Alison sees the positive effects of these meaningful activities every day. "I believe that focusing on the individual and creating activities that are of value to them promotes quality of life for our population in Sidney Care Home." As well as providing care to seniors in their homes, the staff of Sidney SeniorCare encourage their clients to be engaged in the community, such as participating in the creative arts. Sherrin Griffin, VP Operations, proudly notes that "I've seen first-hand how these art classes not only stimulate seniors' minds and senses, but foster healthy social interaction as well. "What's really cool though is to see how creating an art project can bring a special twinkle to their eye and a new zest for life."
JANUARY 2021 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 61