"Some of the most powerful works of art have been produced by older Americans by hands that have engaged in years of hard work, eyes that have witnessed decades of change, and hearts that have felt a lifetime of emotions." -- Hillary Rodham Clinton

Human hands were designed to create beautiful works of art through media as simple as found/discarded objects, as elegant as porcelain, as colorful as paints and pastels, as organic as clay, as accessible as paper and scissors. Feet were born to dance, to move the body in creative, joyful expression. Cameras enable us to capture images that inspire and elicit joy. Playing an instrument can make us tap our toes, waltz around the room, clap our hands, remember a lifetime of such moments. We can perform on stage, read aloud from a beloved novel, write a poem. All of these actions and many more allow us to express ourselves creatively. And what a healthy, positive, youthful pursuit it is to open up our eyes and ears and hearts to creativity.

Numerous studies support the direct connection between the arts and wellness for all ages - particularly for older Americans. If you played the flute or guitar or horn as a student and haven't touched the instrument in years, try again and experience anew the profound bliss of making music. Pick up a paint brush again ... or for the first time ... and make something beautiful. Take a class. If you have a creative expertise, teach a class. Volunteer in a children's arts or crafts program.

Many Internet sites foster arts programs for seniors, including the National Endowment for the Arts and the National Center for Creative Aging, and many universities and community centers offer programs you can access. Check out the possibilities and start having fun! Arts programs can improve quality of life by instilling a sense of mastery, reducing stress, urging socialization, building mental alertness and boosting problem-solving skills.

Expressing ourselves creatively enhances quality of life ... and isn't that what everyone wants?

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