Wildcat Senior Living
Newsletter

WHAT IS ART THERAPY?
According to the American Art Therapy Association, art therapy is a “mental health profession that combines knowledge and understanding of human development and psychological theories and techniques with visual arts and the creative process to provide a unique approach for helping clients improve psychological health, cognitive abilities, and sensory-motor functions.” The process of creating artwork can help people express their feelings while reducing anxiety and stress.
For seniors, art therapy can create a sense of well-being and help restore functioning. From managing chronic pain to helping those suffering from memory loss due to dementia, art therapy is a powerful tool that can be used to enrich the lives of senior citizens in many ways.

MOOD IMPROVEMENT
Art therapy is a powerful tool for improving one’s mood. For seniors who are experiencing changes in their health or symptoms relating to memory loss, hearing loss, etc., engaging in art can provide a much-needed escape and brighten their moods.

Activities that engage the senses–such as creating art–trigger the brain to release pleasure-related neurotransmitters like dopamine. This results in a boost in overall mood. Art therapy can also improve someone’s mood by giving them a sense of self-esteem and self-worth. Because art can serve as an opportunity for people to engage with each other in a non-threatening manner, it can also improve moods by helping people form relationships.