The University of Bolton cites creative writing as being more than a fun pastime. Their experts found that those who write frequently can gain mental clarity and self-esteem.
Creative writing also serves to express emotions and enhance creative thinking.
Older adults can reap the benefits of creative writing as a lifelong learning strategy as well. Read on to learn how creative writing exercises promote learning things throughout older adults’ golden years.
Physical Health Benefits
A University of Texas at Austin researcher reported that journaling can strengthen the immune system.
Others found that it can decrease the impacts of rheumatoid arthritis, a health issue that seniors commonly suffer from.
The hand muscle and joint movements from the physical act of both typing and handwriting also improve physical dexterity. Seniors who write are less likely to experience issues with stiff hand and wrist joints.
Having good physical health primes people, particularly older adults, for lifelong learning. The distraction of physical pain won’t slow writers down as much. Seniors will also have more free time to write about various topics, which means they can learn more about their own style.
Writing for Cognitive Health
A 2019 study published in the National Library of Medicine looked into how writing correlates with neural processes during learning.
Researchers looked into adults who write stories about various events and topics. They looked into the brain function of those who engaged in expressive writing vs those in a control group who did not.
The study found that those who did creative writing exercises had:
- Better memories
- Higher cognitive performance
- Better performance in courses and exams, showing higher levels of quick critical thought
- Better ability to process negative emotions
While the study looked at people of all ages, seniors need these benefits more than anyone. They’re more at risk for cognitive decline and memory issues.
The increased rates of loneliness and depression also make processing bad feelings important. This can stave off physiological stress responses and boost focus as well.
Lower Instances of Dementia
Writing isn’t just good at boosting short-term memory. Clinical studies suggest that older adults with mild cognitive impairment are more likely to develop dementia.
Researchers looked into creative expression therapy as a possible way to nip cognitive impairment in the bud. They found that adults with mild cognitive impairment who expressed themselves through creative writing had higher cognitive functions than their counterparts who did not.
This boosted daily living ability so that the older adults in the study could live as independently as possible.
Ultimately, this may serve to stave off dementia because of the link between cognitive issues and memory-related conditions like dementia and Parkinson’s.
A Stronger Sense of Self
There are several formats for creative writing, including:
- Short stories
- Novels
- Poetry
- Letters to loved ones
- Journaling
This diversity means that older adults have several different ways to express themselves. They can choose the style that best fits their writing goals and personal preferences.
Plus, seniors can write about a variety of topics regardless of the format they choose. Some older adults like to build worlds of their own with fantasy short stories. Others like to daydream while writing romances and friendship-related stories.
The ability to choose between several formats and topics means that writers can be more confident in what they produce. They’ll feel like they made something that’s 100% their own, which creates a stronger sense of self and can help make seniors more self-assured.
People with higher self-confidence feel ready for lifelong learning since they’ll be secure in what they can accomplish.
Inspirational Writing Prompts
Coming up with writing ideas can be challenging for seniors, but part of promoting lifelong learning is accessing interesting prompts and writing challenges for older adults.
Experts in assisted living communities offer workshops for residents to learn more by expressing themselves. They might discuss possible story ideas with seniors and brainstorm outlines.
Whether a resident wants to write something semi-autobiographical or a whimsical piece of fiction, they’ll help the writer come up with something that inspires them. These creative writing exercises are more interesting to seniors, so they’ll focus fully on what they’re doing.
This helps to retain interest in life as well as to strengthen attention span. Both of these attributes are needed for lifelong learning, so creative writing is a great way to inspire intellectual development and left-brained creativity.
Social Opportunities for Writers
Writing individually is fun because it allows for limitless creative expression. However, seniors can also write in group settings. A writing group offers opportunities to:
- Brainstorm ideas
- Discuss concepts
- Create compelling characters
- Decide on stylistic choices
- Get feedback from other writers
- Edit stories effectively
- Experiment with new ideas and structures
Whether a senior community has creative writing groups or residents put them together independently, they provide a great opportunity to exchange ideas.
These social opportunities also help seniors stave off the impacts of loneliness. These include:
- Sadness
- Depression
- Anxiety and stress
- Agitation
- Bad moods
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Diabetes
When looking for an assisted living community, make sure to find somewhere that promotes senior socialization. Activities and events like creative writing and workshops are some of the top things to look for. They keep seniors sharp so they can remain lifelong learners.
You should also make sure that the community has a well-stocked library and comfortable amenities for reading and writing. Books can provide inspiration for writers when crafting their own stories. You never know what will get the gears of imagination turning!
Prioritizing Lifelong Learning in Senior Living Communities
Now that you know some ways that creative writing contributes to lifelong learning, it’s time to look for a senior living community that encourages creative expression.
Morada Quintessence is committed to helping seniors in Albuquerque, NM stay sharp. Writing workshops and stimulating conversations with compassionate care experts are inspiring ways to get ideas before putting pen to paper.
Our Executive Director has 16 years of helping older adults and their families thrive, so schedule a tour to learn more about our community features and amenities!
