🎨🎵 Art and Music in Older Adults: More than Hobbies, True Life Therapies

By Epilef Zaíd | Vital Senior Blog

Introduction

As we age, maintaining good mental, physical, and emotional health becomes key to fully enjoying life . And although many associate old age with the "inability" to do and learn, more and more studies and experiences show that movement, creativity, and emotional expression are essential elements for healthy aging .
In this context, art therapy and music therapy have gained prominence as powerful tools for the well-being of older adults . But what exactly are they? And why are they being so highly recommended by healthcare and geriatric care professionals?
According to the Spanish magazine specializing in geriatrics, " Geriatricarea," in one of its articles focused on the analysis of music therapy and art therapy: " Thanks to these activities, our seniors develop their imagination, their ability to communicate and relate, and their psychomotor skills , obtaining benefits at the physical, psychological, cognitive, and social levels." To read the full article, click here .

The World Health Organization (WHO), through its report "The Health Evidence Network," with more than 900 publications, 200 reviews, and 3,000 additional studies, demonstrates the contribution of the arts to health promotion and the prevention of mental and physical health conditions, as well as the treatment of acute and chronic conditions that arise throughout the life course.
Music is the most accessible and extensively researched art and healing medium , and has been shown to reduce anxiety and help establish emotional balance . There is also evidence of the effectiveness of musical stimulation as a strategy for eliminating and achieving pain control . This phenomenon, in particular, has been widely researched in the use of music in the management of chronic cancer pain .
Additionally, music has been shown to calm neuronal activity in the brain , which can lead to a reduction in anxiety and help restore the effective functioning of the immune system .
The report also concludes that the arts can help deliver comprehensive, people-centered care services , addressing complex challenges for which there are no current health solutions , and helping countries achieve the goals embedded in the 2030 Agenda.

If you want to read the report The Health Evidence Network click on the link

In this Vital Senior Blog article, we tell you everything, with real-life examples, scientific evidence, and a human perspective on what these creative therapies can do for those in the golden age of life .

What are art therapy and music therapy?

Before getting into the benefits, let's briefly clarify the meaning of each of these disciplines.

• Art therapy : is a discipline that uses visual art (drawing, painting, collage, sculpture, etc.) as a form of expression, self-knowledge and emotional healing.
• Music therapy : uses music —listening, singing, playing instruments, or even moving to the beat—as a therapeutic tool to improve a person's physical, mental, and emotional state .

Both disciplines require no prior experience ; it's ideal if they're guided by trained professionals and adapted to each individual's needs and abilities . The important thing isn't the artistic result, but the creative process and everything it allows for awakening and healing .

Now that we're clear on the key concepts we're covering, let's review the 5 Benefits for Older Adults .

5 Benefits for Seniors

🧘‍♀️ 1. Emotional well-being and inner healing

Art and music provide a natural outlet for expressing complex emotions , calming anxiety, and releasing pent-up tension. Many older adults find these therapies a safe space to cope with situations such as loneliness, grief, or stress.
Result: greater inner peace, emotional stability and a more positive attitude towards life.

🧠 2. Cognitive and mental stimulation

Drawing, painting, planning a piece of work or remembering a melody activates different brain functions: memory, attention, creativity and mental agility .
In people with Alzheimer's or mild cognitive impairment , music therapy can improve communication, orientation, and mood .
In short: these therapies are an excellent "mental gym."

🖐️ 3. Physical development and coordination

Participating in these activities involves more than just sitting back and watching: You have to take action, that is, you have to motivate yourself to "Let's" paint , you have to move your body to the rhythm of the music, you have to manipulate materials or play instruments.
This improves coordination, balance, fine and gross motor skills , and helps maintain functional autonomy.
Bonus: Let's promote a more active lifestyle without the need for intense physical effort.

🤝 4. Social ties and sense of community

Group art therapy or music therapy workshops allow people to share stories, experiences, and emotions . These spaces create a network of mutual support, foster camaraderie, and significantly reduce feelings of isolation or loneliness .
Conclusion: Creating together strengthens human connection.

💪 5. Self-esteem, purpose, and joy

Creating something of your own— a work of art, a song, a rhythm — sparks pride, confidence, and joy . Many older adults rediscover forgotten talents and reconnect with an active, creative, and capable identity.
This translates into increased self-esteem, motivation, and a renewed sense of purpose in daily routines.

Conclusion

Art therapy and music therapy are not mere hobbies. They are profound and effective tools for stimulating the mind, caring for the body, and nourishing the soul in older adults . Incorporating them into one's routine—whether in ELEAM-type residences , community centers , or at home —is a concrete way to improve their quality of life, strengthen their independence, and enrich their daily lives with purpose and joy .

Ending...

If you or a loved one are searching for new forms of well-being , these creative therapies can make a difference. Sometimes, a paintbrush or a melody is more than just expression: it's a gateway to a more fulfilling, free, and connected life.

Would you like to implement art or music therapy in your community or with your older relatives? Comment or share this article to inspire others.

🖌️🎶 Art and music are ageless… and always have something to say!

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