The Benefits Of Art Therapy.
The goal of art therapy is to stimulate the body and mind alike through artistic methods. It’s most commonly used for seniors who have trauma, or illnesses such as Alzheimer’s.
Art therapy can encompass many different forms, such as painting, drawing, dancing, photography, scrap-booking, etc.
Art therapy is a creative way for seniors to manage pain and stress and deal with memory loss. Studies have found that seniors who do art have fewer doctor’s visits, better physical health, and require less medication. They also fall less frequently. One study connected art to decreased rates of loneliness and depression, along with better hand dexterity and higher morale.
Here are some more of the art therapy benefits for seniors:
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Improved Cognitive Function
Art therapy helps to challenge seniors to make art in any form they like. This activity helps stimulate their senses to become sharper and more active.
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Improved Mood
Art therapy has been proven to help reduce feelings of depression, stress, and anxiety in all age groups. It is especially helpful for seniors because it helps them divert their focus and free time to something productive.
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Improved Motor Skills
Art therapy helps people to function in their limbs and joints. When painting or drawing, people exercise their hands and arms through a movement that enhances their motor skills.
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More Social Interaction
Art therapy can be a great way to socialize with people. Seniors can meet like-minded people there whom they can easily relate to. These connections can help them combat loneliness, and they can expand their social circle.
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Better Self-Expression
Most seniors find it tough to communicate verbally with people due to physical or mental deterioration. Art therapy can provide them with an alternative way of expressing their emotions and thoughts.
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Pain Relief
Art therapy has also shown to reduce pain in seniors. It has proven to be helpful with disorders and symptoms such as chronic pain. People who suffer from joint problems such as arthritis can relieve their pain and inflammation using art therapy.
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Different Thought Processes
Art therapy is also beneficial in changing the perspective of a person. When you pursue art, you come across different ideas which you might not have experienced before. This kind of therapy can bring change and excitement in your life as you can try out different things rather than the old ways of life.
The use of art allows for an alternative method of communication and ecpression for the elderly, especially when verbal speech is limited. Art is a more visual and sensory way for seniors to express themselves, and can help them lower stress, combat depression, feel a higher sense of well-being, and connect with memories they may otherwise have forgotten.
