Presenter: Amy Henderson, MA

Original Date: January 23, 2016

Research suggests that active participation in the arts and learning promotes physical health, enhances a sense of well-being among older Americans, improves quality of life for those who are ill, and reduces the risk factors that lead to the need for long-term care. Even though there is an interest and participation in the arts by many older Americans, there is a general lack of awareness in the public, healthcare, and social services communities about the positive physical and psychological impacts of arts participation.

It is of crucial importance of knowing the whole patient, including the psychological, cultural and social issues of aging and older adults. This includes the incorporating of creative expression in health care plans, understanding the stigma and disenfranchisement of the old and cognitively impaired and the cost to society and individuals.

1.0 General CEUs approved by OBNM