Helping You Make New Friends

Art classes can be a great way to make new friends, whether you're looking to connect with residents in your new assisted living community or find like-minded people in your hometown. When you choose an art class, you know you're going to meet people who are also interested in that type of creative hobby, which means you'll have at least one thing in common to start with.

Talking to and getting to know new people during a structured activity can also reduce some of the anxiety that might be involved with making new friends. You can easily break the ice by discussing the activity at hand, and when you work on creative projects or a challenging new hobby together, you can find camaraderie in learning and supporting each other.

Even if you don't end up seeing anyone from the class regularly outside of that setting, attending a group activity weekly can help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation that are common for older adults.

Building or Enhancing Communication Skills

Art is a great way to communicate feelings and thoughts with others. Group art classes often include time to discuss your reasoning behind a piece or simply chat about what you were feeling when you made something, and that outlet can help you improve your communication skills and support emotional well-being.

At the same time, art is a nonverbal outlet, so if you have difficulty sharing in words, spending time with others as you create can help you connect.

Fostering Confidence

Art classes often provide a place where older adults interested in art can experiment and take risks, discovering and growing new abilities as they do. As you try out new art methods or complete a project you're proud of, your confidence typically grows. That growing confidence isn't limited to art class; it can extend into other social settings.

When you feel good about what you're doing with your time and your creations, it's also easier to share about it. You might find yourself participating in more discussions about art. Being able to talk confidently with others can help you build new relationships.

Offering a Way to Share Experiences

The act of creating art can bring up memories, and when you do it in a group setting, you have the opportunity to share those stories with others. For example, you might be working on a landscape painting that reminds you of a location special to your family. You can share those experiences with others and listen to their stories too.

Encouraging Routine Engagement

When you join an art class that meets regularly, you add some structure to your week and commit to people who expect to see you. Knowing that you're expected can make it easier to get into the routine of getting out of your home and doing something with others. Consistent activity can help you strengthen social bonds and break isolation habits that might leave you feeling lonely.

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