Expressing creativity through arts and crafts is great exercise for your brain. As people age, physical activity may become more difficult, making stimulating mental activity even more important. While art is naturally an all-ages activity, some arts and crafts projects lend themselves to seniors.
Do you want to better understand the benefits of arts and crafts for seniors? Call us at 850.265.9829 to learn more about the type of programming we offer to encourage senior creativity.
The Importance of Senior Creativity
Arts and crafts for seniors is much more than just about passing the time. Creative expression is linked to health benefits, such as an improved immune system. And for elders with dementia or other cognitive ailments, engaging in artistic work can boost memory, stimulate the brain, and improve overall cognitive function.
Moreover, arts and crafts for seniors sharpens their dexterity at a time of life when arthritis and similar issues can begin to reduce the types of independence that rely on fine motor skills. Other benefits of senior creativity include that it:
- Provides a positive challenge
- Eliminates boredom
- Offers opportunities to socialize
- Increases self-esteem
Summer Themed Arts and Crafts for Seniors
The list of arts and crafts for seniors and senior activities is endless, ranging from knitting to painting to pottery. No matter an elder’s interests, there’s sure to be an artistic activity to match. We’ve rounded up a few summer themed arts and crafts projects to get senior creativity flowing.
Suncatchers
Requiring just a dash of creativity and a few common household objects, suncatchers are a simple craft that allows the creator to get as artistic as they’d like. And when completed, you can hang them in a window and enjoy their beauty as the summer sun streams through.
Decorating Planters
Plants are not just great decor for a room, they also contribute to a healthy environment. Since every plant needs its own pot, decorating terra cotta planters is a great activity to engage senior creativity.
Paper Flowers
Flowers are a wonderful centerpiece that brighten any room. Since fresh flowers only last so long, why not fold beautiful origami paper flowers? You can display them in a mason jar or vase just like real flowers and their beauty sticks around all summer.
Beach Terrarium
For a lot of people, summer means visits to the beach. For most seniors, extensive travel is difficult or not possible. But that doesn’t mean they can’t enjoy a slice of the beach in their room. Gather up some sand and shells and get to making a terrarium they can display throughout the season.
Painted Rocks
Rock painting is a simple, fun way to turn something mundane into a beautiful, decorative piece. If you are painting rocks in the summer, embrace the season by painting trees, flowers, cute critters, or maybe something connected to the 4th of July like flags or fireworks.
Greeting Cards
By combining a few heartfelt words with some simple art, homemade greeting cards can be a beautiful reminder to loved ones or neighbors that they are appreciated. Easy to dress up or else keep them simple, greeting cards give seniors of all artistic inclinations an outlet to express themselves and bring someone else joy with the resulting product.
Adult Coloring Books
Coloring books aren’t just for children anymore. High-quality adult coloring books are widely available nowadays, featuring everything from nature to animals to sports. When finished, coloring pages offer simple room decor to brighten any space.
Arts and Crafts at Summer’s Landing
Summer’s Landing understands the importance of seniors staying active mentally and physically. We provide a number of ways for our seniors to express their creativity, strengthen social bonds, and affirm a positive identity as they age.
Learn more about our senior living community by contacting us at 850.265.9829.
