Art is a popular method for enhancing mental health and improving one's coordination. Applying art therapy to seniors makes sense. If you're unsure whether or not art therapy is right for your loved one, Philadelphia Home Care has listed down a few benefits that your loved one might experience by partaking in art therapy.
1. Stimulates Them Intellectually
Creating uses a different part of the brain than most use. The act of creation requires a lot of brainpower. Because of this, seniors can receive intellectual stimulation by taking part in art therapy.
When asked to unleash their creativity, seniors can look at the world, or themselves, with a different perspective. This unique perspective challenges them. It makes them see the world in a new way.
Sharpening their intellect helps to slow cognitive decline and can keep them engaged in conversation and in social circles.
2. Alleviates Pain
The process of creating art requires a lot of focus. No matter what medium they're using, seniors will need to stay focused on their task in order to complete it to their satisfaction. That focus takes away their attention to the aches and pains that they may be experiencing.
Some may even find that using tools like a large brush can even help their joints. It forces the body to move in new ways that can alleviate inflammation.
3. Enhances Motor Skills
Painters, in particular, may find that their motor skills are enhanced. Even knitters or quilters may find that their motor skills increase. This is because creating art uses fine motor skills. The application of a brush against canvas needs to be guided steadily and firmly to create the correct brush stroke.
A needle needs to be held in order to be threaded. The same goes for following a pattern. Seniors are able to enhance their motor skills through precise movements. The more that they do the art therapy, the better those motor skills become.
4. Develops Connections
In the case of seniors, it's always a concern that they're not socializing or connecting with others enough. Being able to connect to other people keeps the brain healthy and youthful. In some cases, a senior may have some difficulty with verbal communication. Art therapy gives them another way to connect with others.
Art is, at its very heart, a channel for emotions and thoughts to be expressed. Seniors may have a lot of things to say, but they might not have the words for them. Art gives them those words.
It also helps them connect to other artists. Perhaps another senior recognizes the pain or joy in their artwork. This gives them something to speak about and connect over.
Art is something that can be shared.
Introduce Art Therapy To Your Loved One Today
Seniors can experience several benefits when undergoing art therapy. Home Care Philadelphia suggests that you should introduce art therapy to your loved one today and notice the benefits for yourself. You may find that your loved one becomes more excited about life again. Find their preferred art form today.
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