The Importance of Creative Activities for Older People

The benefits of creative activities are well known and shared by all age groups. For older people such pursuits can be particularly beneficial, as they can:

1.        Improve cognitive function and memory

2.        Improve self-esteem and wellbeing

3.        Promote social interaction

AgeUK has produced a report, ‘Creative and Cultural Activities and Wellbeing in Later Life’, drawing on data from the Understanding Society Survey. Using this data, AgeUK created an ‘Index of Wellbeing in Later Life’ which found that, “the strongest message…was the importance of maintaining meaningful engagement with the world around you in later life – whether this is through social, creative or physical activity, work, or belonging to some form of community group.”

At Elliscombe House, we understand the importance of creativity for our residents, and it forms a key part of our activities programme. In recent months residents have been able to take part in the specialist craft of lino print making, with classes by Josie from Class Creative Art School. Class Creative is a farm-based art studio, set up for quality art workshops from the best tutors who thrive on sharing their knowledge.

Here are a few image examples of our residents’ work, including a poppy tribute lino print to commemorate Remembrance Day.