For many, age is not an aspect to consider when talking about oneself. The time we spend on this earth might be relevant in terms of accumulated knowledge through experiences and efforts, but age is not something that feels definitory for who we are.
We can feel as full of life at 50 as we were at 25. Or perhaps even more joyful and creative than in the past.
However, it is a fact that, even though age doesn’t mean more than a number for us, our body inevitably changes, our organs grow older, and so do our brains.
The physical, biological part of us can not deny the passage of time. But the good news is that our creative abilities don’t necessarily deteriorate with time and can serve us in many ways throughout our lives.
According to a study initiated by the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, participating in a cultural mediation activity, such as drawing and painting workshops, could improve our life quality.
This research program included 150 people between the ages of 65 and 94, and the study results surpassed the participants’ expectations.
Over three months, the well-being of the participants improved after each session. The improvement level remained unchanged during all art workshops, but it returned to the initial level by the beginning of the next session.
However, the quality of life was observed to improve gradually and steadily throughout the drawing and painting sessions. It was also demonstrated that the art-based activities helped improve the participants’ health state.
The frailty or frail condition of the participants taken into account in this research increased after the art sessions. The frail condition refers to the accumulated effects of aging and morbidities.
In other words, making art on a regular basis could improve one’s psychological resources to adapt to stressors. Well-being, enhanced quality of life, better mental health are all good reasons to attend an art studio in your 50’s or at any age.
Another study found that older persons who participate in artistic activities need fewer doctor visits, less medication, and have healthier bodies. Also, creative arts, such as painting and drawing classes, can support cognitive function and induce mental and physical healing.
Visual art therapy was proven to be a helpful tool in helping older adults with cognitive decline issues because art can involve:
These aspects of art as a therapeutic tool stimulate cognition and can be essential for people struggling with mild cognitive impairment, dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease.
Besides the well-known physical and psychological advantages of making art, we want to remind people of the benefits of belonging to a group.
Expressing yourself through art, learning how to draw, paint, how to look at an art subject, and receiving compassion and guidance can all contribute to feeling important and less lonely.
Martin Fine Art Classes make up a warm little community for anyone who wants to grow with us and relax, feel more self-confident, and less depressed. Our arms are welcoming, our art supplies are ready, and our instructors are happy to get to know you in a free introductory class.
