For those seniors who are living in assisted living communities, art therapy programs are one of the highlights that make the golden years extra special. Among several types of resident activities, art therapy has been proven to be beneficial in limitless ways. Art programs vary within the assisted living community. There are some things you should know about art therapy programs and how they play a critical role in almost all assisted living communities.

Art is a great outlet, and anyone can be taught, regardless of natural ability. Most people feel that art is an essential function of being human, and there are different spiritual connections for many people to art. Art allows the feeling of freedom, and personal self-expression. It can empower one through beginning to cope with life’s problems at a needed time in life.

Almost everybody who has ever had art therapy has benefited from it in some way. Among resident activities, it quickly becomes a favorite for most residents. People with special needs can find unique ways to work through their personal issues through self-expression where no other means would suffice to accomplish this. Because of the many vital components in art therapy, researchers have documented and proven that it can be therapeutic. In many assisted living communities you’ll find an art department along with special rooms for the art therapy.

Art therapy programs are usually held in conjunction with the rest of the resident activities during the daily routines. Sometimes residents can spend additional time during the day other than just the art therapy session in which to do artwork. Individual art therapists are common in many larger facilities and usually someone who is quite familiar with art will head up the art therapy program. Art is very popular among seniors, and it is quite an accomplishment to complete something and receive the praise from staff and fellow residents they deserve.