According to the American Psychiatric Association, 46% of Americans engage in creative activities to deal with stress and anxiety.
If you recently moved into assisted living, you may feel like your life is changing too fast. Such feelings may also arise even if you've been in a community for a long time but haven't found a good activity to engage your mind.
Creative art projects can transform your experience in a Manitowoc assisted living community. They foster creative expression in elderly care and improve wellness.
Let's discuss the main benefits of art projects and mention a few options you can try out in your community.
Seniors often struggle with memory loss and conditions like Alzheimer's. However, engaging in creative arts can stimulate the brain and help you realize the cognitive benefits of art projects. You'll be able to stay sharp and slow down memory loss from Alzheimer's.
Mental health conditions may develop as you age due to various factors. For example, you may feel isolated and lonely after moving away from loved ones. You could also be sad about losing loved ones or the decreased independence due to aging.
If you have a mental health condition or simply want to improve your well-being, consider a creative arts project. Activities like drawing will help you focus on something positive and distract your mind. They provide a sense of purpose, which allows you to deal with feeling sad or helpless.
Creative expression in elderly care can bring people together and help you make new friends. Assisted living communities in Manitowoc often have group art activities on their calendars.
These allow you to chat with other seniors and share your ideas. You'll feel more connected while gaining a new skill or trying out something you've desired for a long time.
Creating group art builds teamwork and a sense of belonging. It also helps you feel accomplished when other residents compliment your work or when you show it to your loved ones.
If you struggle to express yourself verbally, art projects provide a creative avenue to do so. Using it, you can share emotions positively and avoid poor coping mechanisms.
For example, you can paint bright colors when feeling excited and use soft, calm shades in a peaceful mood. You may also paint with dark colors to express sadness or frustration.
Engaging in art projects allows you to process and explore different emotions without explaining them. You'll experience a sense of release and satisfaction regardless of your mood.
Art is also perfect for sharing your feelings in a creative and meaningful way. It ultimately helps you connect with your inner self and the surroundings.
Art projects require using your hands and fingers, which has many physical benefits. For example, shaping clay or holding a paintbrush enhances fine motor skills and strengthens hand muscles. With time, you may find it easier to do everyday things like tying shoelaces or opening jars with less help.
Another way art projects can boost your physical health is by improving coordination. They allow you to focus on small details, training your brain and body to work together. If you paint or frequently draw, for example, you'll improve coordination between your hands and eyes in the long run.
Senior housing providers in Manitowoc offer many assisted living activities, including art therapy. They have instructors who guide residents in using art to express themselves and enhance their overall well-being.
Some art therapy activities you can find in a Manitowoc senior living community are:
Since Manitowoc communities often have many creative art projects for residents, it may be tough to choose an ideal one. Luckily, there is always something you can do, whether you're a beginner or a seasoned artist.
If you're new to art, you might want to start with something simple, like coloring or sketching. These activities let you explore your creativity without feeling overwhelmed.
On the other hand, if you have some experience, consider taking on a bigger challenge such as:
When choosing a project, think about what you enjoy and what you'd like to accomplish. Do you want to create something to share with your family, like a handmade card or jewelry? Would you prefer an activity that helps you relax, like watercolor painting or scrapbooking?
Asking yourself such questions will assist you in narrowing your art therapy options. Trying different projects to see what interests you is also a good idea. By exploring, you might discover hidden talents or find a new hobby.
Employees in senior living communities play an important role in helping you create enjoyable and meaningful experiences. They will offer art therapy and other creative projects, making residing in the community more fun.
Here are various ways they can assist:
Instructors in assisted living can ensure you choose the right art activities based on your interests and abilities. They may even help you start a project with a special meaning, like creating a gift for a loved one or working on a personal memory book.
Staff members in a Manitowoc community can ensure the art space is welcoming and comfortable. They will set up supplies and clean up afterward, allowing you to focus on creativity. Further, they'll encourage and support you so you feel more confident trying new things.
Creative art projects keep your brain active, improve your health, and help you connect with others. They also provide a safe and effective way to communicate your feelings and process emotions. Explore your interests and seek help from assisted living community staff to find the right art projects.
LakeHouse Manitowoc fosters a sense of family and provides a safe, engaging environment. Our activity calendar includes art projects and sensory activities to ensure you live a full life. Contact us for a community tour in Manitowoc, WI.