Creative arts like drawing and painting make safe and enjoyable hobbies for seniors. These activities are also cost-efficient and easy to start—all it takes is a trip to the nearest art supply store to get some basic materials, like a sketchbook and drawing pencils. On top of that, art offers therapeutic benefits for aging individuals, boosting mental and physical well-being.

3 Ways Art Benefits Seniors

1. Physically

Activities like painting and beading encourage the elderly to maintain manual dexterity by using their hands actively. Activities like clay molding are particularly useful to individuals with chronic inflammation and joint pain due to conditions like arthritis, providing a gentle form of physical therapy for the fingers and wrists.

2. Mentally

Research shows that creating visual art can combat cognitive decline and slow the progress of dementia. Exercising the creative part of the mind can also be soothing, decreasing stress and promoting relaxation. Chronic stress leads to a variety of health issues, from heart disease to anxiety, so using art therapy for stress management is valuable prevention. Creating art helps improve mental facilities like spatial judgment as well.

Social Benefits

Art allows seniors to express their emotions and connect socially. This is especially valuable for those with dementia, which makes social tasks, like carrying a conversation, more challenging. There are many ways to tap into these social benefits, from taking part in senior art classes or attending online art appreciation seminars.

Hawaiian Graphics offers the art supplies you need to help your senior loved one discover the therapeutic benefits of art. Located in Honolulu, this locally owned art supply store serves all of Oahu and works with artists of all levels, from beginners to professionals. They’re set apart by their knowledgeable staff, who will happily help you find the best product for your needs. Visit their website to view their latest deals, or call the art supply store at (808) 973-7171 with questions.