The benefits of participating in art is the subject of research by The University of Western Australia and Busselton Health Study. Findings link better physical health and mental wellbeing in older Australians with taking part in the arts.
Lead researcher Dr Christina Davies said the study found older adults who engaged in any recreational arts activities during the 12-month study experienced significantly better mental and physical health outcomes than those who didn’t participate.
“Whether you like listening to music, reading, colouring, singing, dancing or attending concerts, the arts can provide a range of health enhancing opportunities,” Dr Davies said.
“People don’t need to be good at art for the arts to be good for them. It’s about having a go and taking part in the arts activities and events that make you feel good.”
Busselton Health Study Centre Director, Dr Michael Hunter said about 85 per cent of the study cohort took part in the arts during the past 12 months including attending events, making art, learning about art, or spending time as a member or volunteer at an arts organisation.
“Like the positive health benefits derived from physical activity, our study suggests that programs that encourage participation in recreational arts activities may be a useful population-based approach to healthy aging,” Dr Hunter said.
Further research plans to look at the “arts dose” – the optimal length of time older adults should engage in the arts to see a positive impact on physical and mental health. The arts dose for mental wellbeing has been calculated as two hours a week for the general population.
U3A (University of the Third Age) provides educational courses and activities, including art classes, for older adults. Each U3A is independently managed, so art offerings would vary by location.
Local councils and community centres can offer low-cost art classes or creative programs targeted towards seniors and retirees.