Becoming an Elderly Artist
Study after study show the health benefits of engaging in artistic endeavors. From cognitive ability to self-confidence, fortune favors those who find a way to be creative. However, it’s not that easy to learn new tricks in your later years, especially when those tricks seem like hard-earned talents.
Fortunately, more and more programs are becoming available to elderly amateurs. Whether it's your first tap dancing class or your first foray into water coloring, it’s never too late to stimulate your brain and try something new.
Active Artists
If you’re up for it, nothing will be more rewarding than some kind of creative movement. There are plenty of dance classes that cater to senior citizens, even those who need the help of a walker or cane to get their groove on. Learning choreography stimulates the mind while also improving strength and flexibility. You don’t have to be exceptionally fit to start dancing, and regular movement will definitely help with that fitness.
If you’re more of a sound-maker than a mover, singing in a choir is an excellent activity as well. It doesn’t require the same kind of exertion as dance, but standing and singing is good for the body. Combined with the challenge and reward of learning new songs, anyone who adds music to their hobbies is improving their well-being.
Visual Arts
While not the same calorie-burner as doing the samba, painting, drawing, and working with clay are fun activities that do tremendous good for mental health and acuity. Whether you work with an instructor or just try to teach yourself, anyone can become a painter or a sculptor at their own speed.
One of the best ways to practice your new visual medium is outside, where you can recreate a lovely vista while still getting some sunshine on your skin. Load supplies into your walker tote and head to the park to paint—it’s the perfect combination of exercise, art, and the potential for socializing as you see friendly faces walking by.
Written Words
Who’s to say you’re not the next great American poet or novelist? You don’t have to share your words with anyone if you’re shy, but journaling or writing short stories is both therapeutic and mentally stimulating. Everyone has a story to tell or thoughts to express, so don’t hold yourself back with fears of whether or not you’re a talented writer. If you have something to write or type on, that’s all you really need.
Too many people spend their later years wishing they’d had time to dance or sing or sculpt or write in their youth. We can’t go back in time, but it’s never too late to try something new. Using a form of creativity to engage your mind and teach yourself new skills is one of the best gifts you can give yourself, and there’s no good reason not to start today.