AGE | Art for Better Living: A Creative Approach to Aging Well
Staying healthy as we age goes beyond physical checkups. Mental and emotional well-being are critical to quality of life, especially for older adults who may face challenges like isolation, chronic illness, or grief. The idea of using art to improve quality of life is not new; research has consistently documented the benefits of creative expression. Stress management, emotional resilience, and strengthened social connections are just a few of the many benefits of taking an art class or sharing one’s creations.
Why Art?
Decades of research studies have demonstrated that creating art has measurable benefits for mental well-being. Painting, drawing, and other hands-on activities can help reduce anxiety, lower stress hormones, and boost feelings of joy and calm. For older adults, this form of creative engagement may also support cognitive function and lift mood.
Art offers a safe and gentle way to express emotions that can sometimes be difficult to put into words. Participants can explore their inner worlds through color, movement, and texture, gaining perspective and often experiencing emotional release. Even more powerful is the group experience—when individuals create alongside others, they can build friendships, share stories, and realize they are not alone in their struggles.
Why Take a Painting Class?
Painting classes offer more than just a chance to dabble in color; they also create meaningful opportunities to express ourselves, reduce stress, and, for those of us growing older, maintain mental sharpness. Painting classes may also offer the opportunity to make new friends.
A Creative Future for Aging
It’s never too late to begin creating. Whether you’re picking up a paintbrush for the first time or returning to a long-lost hobby, creativity can play a vital role in aging well.
What if painting isn’t for you? Don’t worry—creativity doesn’t stop at the end of a paintbrush. It can be found in many hobbies, such as:
- Drawing or sketching
- Adult coloring books
- Creative writing, poetry, or journaling
- Fiber arts such as knitting, quilting, or weaving
- Dancing, yoga, or tai chi
- Music – singing, listening, playing an instrument, or songwriting
- Clay or sculptures
- Collages or visual boards
- Photography or digital creations, such as photo editing or videos
- Scrapbooking or photo journaling
- Glass or rock painting
- Stained glass crafts
- Card-making or stamping
- Beading or jewelry-making
- Woodworking or whittling
- Model building (cars, planes, or miniature villages)
- Flower arrangement
- Nature journaling
- Puzzle art (gluing and framing puzzles)
Creativity is not just a pastime—for some, it’s a lifeline. It helps us stay curious and alive inside. Whether you enjoy painting, writing poetry, or playing a new song on the guitar, engaging in the arts allows you to grow, connect with others, and thrive.
© April 2025
4 Responses
Melissa, Thank you for encouraging us all to be more creative & add our individual touch of beauty to the world. I agree that when I’m engrossed in a sewing project, writing in my journal or communing with the flowers in my garden, I am most content and peaceful.
Back at you with peace and health.
Thank you so much for your kind words, Margaret. It’s truly a privilege to serve Big Horn County through UW Extension; people like you and John make this work deeply meaningful. I always enjoy seeing your smiling faces at programs, and I look forward to crossing paths again soon, maybe at a Wyoming Walks outing or during Lovell’s Keys to Embracing Aging at the senior center this August. Until then, take good care!
I know when I’ve gone to art classes for grief I felt immediate relief from heavy emotions I had suppressed about loved ones who had passed. Great article✔️
Anne, I couldn’t agree more. Art can be such a powerful tool for navigating grief. One participant recently told me that creating art in class helped her process a loss she experienced recently. Your insight resonates with me and reminds me why we do this work. Thank you for taking the time to share.