Bridging Art and Care: How Creativity Can Enhance Senior Life and Well-Being

We are all aging, and that is something no one can escape from. Then how do a lot of people forget that those old people around them were as young as them once and had their own interests, hobbies, jobs, etc.?

If your loved one needs long-term care from a facility like a rehabilitation center or care/nursing home, don’t forget that their lives still need to be filled with something they love to do.

Art has a healing effect, and besides basic care needs that are essential, it would be wonderful if you found a rehabilitation center that provides activities that involve some form of art, like music, painting, crafting, etc. Of course, you probably know what your elderly are interested in, but if you are not sure, make sure to ask!

Then, according to the answer, find a facility that will enable your loved one to spend some quality time and do something he actually enjoys. If you’re still not sure why creative outlets matter so much in rehabilitation centers, then you should read the next few points.

Health and Other Priorities

Health is a priority, for sure, but is that the only thing that matters when choosing the place where your senior is going to spend a lot of time, maybe even the rest of his life?

Of course, NO! There are several factors you must take into consideration when looking for the best care facility.

1. Staff-to-Resident Ratio: It might seem complicated, but it is actually a great parameter for choosing a good facility. Basically, it is a number of people/residents that one staff member is taking care of. The lower that ratio is, the more time and attention residents will be provided by the staff.
2. Social and Creative Programs: As mentioned, creative programs and activities are so important for senior lifestyles in care homes, and they have a tremendous effect on their overall well-being. Also, social events matter, too! They will keep your loved one involved in society and make a sense of purpose for him.
3. Good Environment: You want your elderly to feel comfortable and to feel at home in a place where they will live, right? That is the reason why the environment is very important. A well-maintained space with warm details and relaxing areas will enhance your senior’s quality of life.
4. Family Involvement: No one wants to feel left alone, so you must make sure that your loved one feels your support and presence while staying in a rehabilitation center. It is crucial for their mental and overall well-being.
5. Dining and Nutrition: Healthy nutrition is essential for anyone’s well-being, especially for seniors if they have some special dietary needs.
6. Reputation and Inspection Ratings: You certainly want to be sure that you found the best rehabilitation center and care for your loved one. Then you have to check everything when choosing the facility, especially reputation and Inspection Ratings. Look how many stars CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) gave the facility you’re interested in. It should help you to be certain of your choice.

There are some high-standard facilities that have 5 stars and a remarkable reputation, but unfortunately, there are also facilities with very low inspection ratings.

Here’s an example (just one out of many): Deerfield Beach Health and Rehabilitation Center’s failure to provide proper care is proof that the inspection ratings are something you must not neglect. If you had a bad experience or your loved one suffered any form of neglect, make sure to contact the law center and demand your rights.

Therapeutic Benefits of Creativity

Back to creative outlines and all the reasons why they are so important for residents of rehabilitation centers! There are many mental and physical health benefits to participating in creative activities like painting, music, and others.

Creative activities stimulate cognitive function, improve mood, and provide a sense of purpose, and those are all benefits everyone in a rehabilitation center needs.

Look for facilities that provide some creative programs, preferably with an activity your loved one loves and prefers.

Creative Programs as a Standard of Quality

Creative programs are not a luxury in care homes and rehabilitation facilities. It is a standard of care!

A facility that focuses on art and self-expression is showing its commitment to resident well-being that goes above just covering basic needs, and that is something you should be looking for.

To conclude, if you notice that the facility you’re researching doesn’t provide any creative activity, that’s a red flag. Look for another one.

Examples of Creative Activities in Care Homes

Some high-quality care homes and rehabilitation centers with long-term stays for residents provide great creative programs and activities.

Seniors usually enjoy group art projects, where they can socialize with other residents as well.

Music therapy is among the most common creative activities because it is very beneficial for elderly mental health.

Routine matters, too, so preferably look for a facility that provides weekly creative classes.

 

Conclusion

Talk to your loved ones! Their wishes come first, and your job is to find out what kind of facility is the best for them.

Look for the facilities that provide the best health care, have enough staff, good ratings, and reputation, but besides all of that, that has a pleasant environment for your senior and creative activities that will help them stay active, feel a sense of purpose and keep them involved in society.