The Art of Aging Well: How Creativity Keeps Older Adults Engaged, Inspired, and Thriving
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When Gabriela “Gaby” Mejia first walked into the Serving Seniors Gary and Mary West Senior Wellness Center to volunteer, she never imagined she would soon be known for her vibrant artwork as well as her giving spirit.
Today, at age 62, Gaby is both a valued volunteer and a participant in Serving Seniors’ art enrichment programs. Her work, showcased in this year’s annual Artopia competition, reflects her belief that creativity is not only an outlet for self-expression—it’s a vital part of staying mentally, emotionally, and physically healthy.
Art as a Path to Connection and Wellness
For Gaby, volunteering and art are deeply connected. “To me, it’s like having a party every single day,” she said. “I come here very happy and I leave in the afternoon very happy.” Whether she’s serving coffee, wrapping silverware, or helping with lunch service, Gaby finds joy in being part of a community that values purpose and connection.
Her art plays a similar role. Participating in Serving Seniors’ creative workshops and art therapy sessions helps her find calm and meaning. “Creating art is very relaxing,” Gaby shared. “It’s been critical to my mental wellness.”
Her Artopia entries this year include a three-dimensional collage symbolizing love and happy thoughts, and a dual-profile self-portrait representing her roots on earth and her spirit reaching toward heaven. Both capture her deep emotional expression and her journey of self-discovery.
The Healing Power of Creative Expression
Gaby’s story reflects a growing body of evidence showing that artistic expression supports healthy aging. A 2022 research study by the U.S. National Institutes of Health has shown that engaging in creative activities like painting, music, and writing can improve cognitive function, reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, and even promote physical health by lowering stress levels and blood pressure. It also demonstrates the use of art therapy interventions can serve as effective prevention strategies to preserve physical and mental health.
For older adults, art provides a safe and empowering way to process emotions, share stories, and build community. It offers a sense of accomplishment that combats isolation and helps seniors see aging not as decline, but as transformation.
At Serving Seniors, art becomes a tool for healing and connection for low income and homeless older adults. Programs such as Artopia encourage clients to explore creativity at their own pace developing a sense of purpose. Participants like Gaby say these creative experiences become a cornerstone of their wellbeing.
Inspiration Across Generations
Gaby also finds inspiration in the artistic expression of her older peers as a positive look at aging well. “We have people who volunteer that are over 80,” she said. “If they can do it, that means I can do it.” Seeing other older adults remain active and engaged motivates her to stay involved, both through art and community service.
An unexpected benefit is the change in Gaby’s perspective on the older adult population experiencing homelessness.
“I started looking at homelessness in a completely different way,” said Gaby. “I hang out with people. I make friends with them. They see me in the street and recognize me.” Developing her empathy illustrates the offers opportunities for growth and contribution in every stage of life.
Celebrating Art and Aging
Through programs like Artopia, Serving Seniors celebrates the creativity and resilience of older adults who use art to enrich their lives. Each piece displayed tells a personal story of positive aging and lessons learned. Gaby brings her own stories to life every time she picks up a brush or a pair of scissors.
“Once I started being part of the community, it became very inspiring,” she said. “Art gives me peace, and it connects me to others.”
Gaby’s journey is a valuable reminder that creativity has no expiration date. The arts help older adults stay mentally sharp, emotionally balanced, and joyfully connected to themselves, to others, and to the world around them.
We're grateful for volunteers like Gabriela, who show up for our seniors daily with enthusiasm and care!
