Life is full of choices. While many of us had dreams in our youth of becoming artists, photographers, or musicians, those dreams often took a back seat to careers and responsibilities. Now that you’re retired, you may be wondering, “Does creativity decline with age?” Fortunately, research shows it’s never too late to be creative. In fact, creativity tends to remain stable as we age — and engaging in artistic activities can significantly boost brain health in seniors. Plus, you now have the added advantages of wisdom, experience, and patience.

Still think you’re too old to start now? Consider these inspiring late bloomers:

Laura Ingalls Wilder began writing Little House on the Prairie at age 65. Many other writers, such as Cormac McCarthy, Frank McCourt, and Toni Morrison, also began their literary careers later in life.

Dame Judi Dench rose to international fame at 61 and is now regarded as one of Britain’s greatest actresses.

Grandma Moses, the American folk artist whose work was featured at the Museum of Modern Art and who graced the cover of Time in 1953, didn’t begin painting until she was 78.

Smoky Dawson, known as Australia’s first cowboy and a pioneer of Western music, became the oldest person to compose, record, and release a new album — at age 92.

The Benefits of Exploring Your Creativity While Aging

Research shows that engaging in creative hobbies offers a wide range of benefits, including:

·      Helping you relax

·      Providing a sense of control

·      Reducing depression and anxiety

·      Promoting socialization

·      Encouraging playfulness and a sense of humor

·      Improving cognition

·      Offering sensory stimulation

·      Fostering a stronger sense of identity

·      Increasing self-esteem

·      Nurturing spirituality

·      Reducing boredom

Studies have also found that participants in senior art therapy programs:

·      Used less medication

·      Had fewer doctor visits

·      Experienced elevated moods

·      Scored better on measures of depression, loneliness, and morale

What If I Don’t Feel Creative?

Creativity, like any skill, requires practice and repetition. You wouldn’t walk half a mile one week and expect to run a marathon the next, right? But if your goal were to run a marathon, you’d start by gradually building your endurance. The same principle applies to creativity: the best way to start is simply to begin.

Look for inspiration — anything that strikes you as creative. It might be a book, poem, movie, TV show, painting, or craft idea. Even if it’s not your style, recognizing creativity in others can help spark your own ideas.

How to Stay Creative

Once you find your creative spark, nurture it by being a lifelong learner. Stay curious, explore new experiences, meet new people, and try new things. That might mean taking a class, picking up a new skill, visiting a gallery, attending a play or discussion group, or exploring the latest technology. Creativity helps you see the world in a fresh, exciting way.

Creativity Is a Way of Life

At Santa Marta, we believe tapping into your creative side is essential to vibrant senior living. From art classes and guest speakers to clubs and discussion groups, our programs encourage knowledge, expression, and curiosity. You can check out our monthly activity calendar here, or contact one of our helpful senior living counselors to learn more about how Santa Marta creative programs foster lifelong learning.