Empowering Seniors through Artistic Online Education: The Benefits and Tools of Adult Learning in a Digital Age
The benefits of artistic education for seniors.
When seniors with cognitive decline engage in art activities, it helps boost cognitive function in various areas of the brain, including verbal skills, attention, and orientation. It can stir dormant memories, encourage speech, or spark nonverbal expressions such as smiles and laughter[1].
Not to be overlooked, another benefit of painting is the feeling of satisfaction that comes with creating a piece of art. Being able to sit back and admire a picture, knowing that you created it yourself is incredibly gratifying. It may even have a transformative impact on your day[1].
The purpose of this scoping review is to investigate the value of creative arts therapies in healthy older adults. This article aims to shed light on current knowledge concerning the effectiveness of art therapies (ATs) for the prevention of common age-related conditions using the definition of art therapy provided by the American Art Therapy Association (AATA), as well as Cohen’s conceptual framework for the psychological conceptualization of the relationship between the arts and health in later life. The objective is to carefully capture subthreshold situations of distress, which are often not taken into account and primarily involve psychological aspects that are crucial in the multidimensional perspective of healthy aging. Twelve articles were selected and examined following an initial electronic search on 3 databases. A thematic analysis of the results identified four major themes: improving cognitive performance and proprioception; enhancing self-identity and meaningful life; reducing feelings of loneliness and depressive symptoms; and the importance of socialization. All these aspects constitute the basis for preventing psychological distress and enhancing mental well-being for healthy aging[2].
Tools for online artistic education for seniors.
Workshops play a crucial role in promoting digital literacy among senior citizens. By offering hands-on experience, seniors can develop their skills in an interactive and supportive environment. Faculties specializing in digital technologies or arts integrate these practical workshops to help seniors overcome the barriers and challenges they face while navigating the digital world[3].
Whether you’re looking for a how-to course on publishing a novel, curious about the Revolutionary War or interested in learning how to maintain optimal health as you age, the world of online learning is vast. Picking up new knowledge or adding a unique skill to your arsenal is great for social engagement, life purpose, brain health and more[4].
Different applications offer numerous possibilities for seniors to learn, work, and interact with others. Digital literacy skills encompass the ability to use applications for various tasks such as paying bills, ordering groceries, connecting with family and friends, or even exploring new hobbies. Having the competence to use these tools effectively offers a sense of independence and fulfillment in their daily lives[3].
Overcoming barriers to online artistic education for seniors.
Many outlets are experimenting with ways to engage seniors in online learning. Community colleges and universities, workshop providers and nonprofit organizations are all tapping into the online adult education marketplace. Here are a few of the best free online classes for seniors:[4].
Now more than ever, online learning is empowering older adults to continue their education, dive into their interests or learn something completely new. When it comes to online learning for seniors, there are a variety of benefits and the options for the types of courses to choose from are truly limitless[4].
Another hurdle that seniors encounter in the process of improving their digital literacy is the lack of age-appropriate and user-friendly instructional materials. Many existing resources are designed for younger individuals and may not address the specific needs, motivations, and learning styles of older adults. This issue highlights the importance of tailoring digital literacy programs to seniors’ unique requirements and perspectives[3].
1. The Benefits of Art and Painting for Older Adults – All Seniors Care. (n.d.) retrieved March 2, 2024, from www.allseniorscare.com
2. Creativity and art therapies to promote healthy aging: A scoping review. (n.d.) retrieved March 2, 2024, from www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9549330/
3. Digital Literacy for Seniors To Embrace Today’s Technology. (n.d.) retrieved March 2, 2024, from seniorsbulletin.ca/digital-literacy/
4. Online Learning for Seniors: The 6 Best Free Online Courses. (n.d.) retrieved March 2, 2024, from www.storypoint.com
Tag:ageing, art, art education, education, experience, seniors, support