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We receive many newsletters but when an article shouts out to me, I always stop and pay attention. That's what happened when I came across Fine Arts, Creativity & the Aging Brain Positively Linked by Francine Toder. She explores the research that documents the value of arts and aging. Then she couples it with testimonials from older artists.
The research shows how the arts help older adults physically, mentally, and psychologically. But participation does so much more. We see it every day. We watch as older actors, writers, and directors explore their creativity. They transform as they meet the challenges before them.
As the author says, we've all heard about how seniors need physical exercise, but the need for mental exercise is strong also. Acting makes your mind more flexible, more adaptable, and more stimulated. You get to enter the 'zone' of creativity which gives focus and energy to your work. It makes for great stimulation, no matter your age or physical condition.
Read the article, in the below link, and you'll find yourself encouraged to start or expand your Senior Theatre work. Perhaps it's time for you to fulfill your dream of returning to the stage; perhaps acting is something you've always wanted to do. Even if you spent your life in the theatre, there's no better time than now to fire up your theatre skills. There's so much you can do to contribute to the field of Senior Theatre--from acting to directing to...well, the sky's the limit.
Thank you, Francine, for reminding me to keep up my drumbeat, "the arts are good for you!" Thank you, Francine, for reminding all of us, "If not now, when?"
Yours in theatre,
Bonnie L. Vorenberg
ArtAge Senior Theatre Resource Center, President
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