Being creative in our senior years can make
us happier, according to research.
For example, The Creativity and
Aging Study conducted by the National Endowment for the Arts and The George Washington
University determined that older people who pursue creative projects such as
writing, painting and music have more self-esteem while having better overall
health and being happier.
Who doesn’t want that as the
years pile on?
Research has shown that
creativity fires neurons that create connections to make the brain grow as it
ages. And creativity results in more life satisfaction. Award-winning author
and poet Piero Rivolta, 77, who rededicated himself as a writer after a
successful business career says he wishes more people pursued creativity
sooner.
According to Rivolta: “You
really need a sense of purpose as you get older with seemingly less to do.” And
creative pursuits such as art classes are also a great way to connect socially.
“... whether you’re sharing ideas, the gift of your talents or just time
together, it makes for a much happier existence.”
There are many examples of older
people who did not let age stand in the way of their creativity.
Oscar-nominated screenwriter Millard Kaufman wrote his fist novel Bowl of Cherries at age 90. Benjamin
Franklin was 78 when he invented the bifocal lens. Frank Lloyd Wright completed
the design of the Guggenheim Museum in New York at 92. And Giuseppe Verdi wrote
the acclaimed opera Falstaff at 79.
We only need to follow a road
that brings us enjoyment rather than worry about the number of candles that
will decorate our next birthday cake.
That’s always my quest!
