In a new study, scientists have discovered a hobby that boosts mental wellbeing in seniors.
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Participants actively engaging in recreational arts activities reported higher levels of mental wellbeing. This was measured by the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale (WEMWBS). This scale assesses factors like happiness and psychological functioning.
- Although the link between arts engagement and physical health wasn’t as robust as with mental wellbeing, a positive association was identified. Those involved in recreational arts reported better overall health. This was evaluated by the SF-12 questionnaire which assesses both physical and mental health components.
- The study uncovered varying levels of engagement in arts activities among participants. Importantly, higher levels of involvement were correlated with greater benefits to mental wellbeing. This suggests that the extent of participation in recreational arts may play a crucial role in enhancing mental health.
- The research emphasized that individuals need not be skilled at art for it to positively impact their wellbeing. Engaging in arts activities that bring joy, happiness, relaxation, etc., was highlighted as crucial. This could include activities such as listening to music, singing, dancing, painting or photography.
- While the study provides promising insights, its cross-sectional nature raises the need for future research to explore causality. Longitudinal studies or randomized controlled trials could offer more definitive evidence on whether engaging in the arts leads to better mental well-being.
Hobby and Mental Wellbeing of Seniors
In a recent study, scientists explored how engaging in recreational art activities positively influences the mental wellbeing of seniors.
The study sheds light on the connection between participating in arts-related activities and reporting higher levels of mental health and overall well-being.
As our population continues to age, understanding the impact of lifestyle choices on the health and happiness of older individuals becomes increasingly crucial.
The study aimed to investigate an area that had not been extensively explored – the specific influence of arts engagement on the well-being of the aging population.
Prior research had highlighted the importance of factors like social isolation, bereavement and financial difficulties on the mental and physical health of older adults.
This study sought to understand whether participation in arts-related activities could serve as a non-medical strategy to enhance the quality of life for older individuals.
The research was conducted as part of the larger Busselton Healthy Ageing Study. It targets non-institutionalized adults born between 1946 and 1964 in the City of Busselton.
A substantial sample size of 2,843 participants was gathered. This was with a focus on their involvement in various forms of arts over the previous year. It includes attending events, creating art and volunteering in art-related activities.
Here are the key findings:
Participants engaging in recreational arts activities reported higher levels of mental well-being.
This positive correlation was measured using the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale (WEMWBS), assessing factors like happiness and psychological functioning.
While the link between arts engagement and physical health wasn’t as strong as with mental well-being, a positive association was still found.
Participants engaging in recreational arts reported better overall health than those who did not. This was according to the SF-12 questionnaire, which evaluates both physical and mental health components.
The study revealed variability in the level of engagement in arts activities among participants. Importantly, higher levels of engagement were associated with greater benefits to mental well-being.
This suggests that the extent of involvement in recreational arts may play a role in enhancing mental health.
The study emphasized that individuals don’t need to be skilled at art for it to positively impact their well-being.
Engaging in arts activities that bring joy, happiness, relaxation, etc., was highlighted as crucial. This could include activities such as listening to music, singing, dancing, painting, or photography.
While the study provides promising insights, its cross-sectional nature leaves room for future research to explore causality.
Longitudinal studies or randomized controlled trials could offer more definitive evidence regarding whether engaging in the arts leads to better mental well-being.
Other Hobbies That Can Enhance Mental Wellbeing
Trying out different hobbies isn’t just a fun way to spend your time – it’s actually a great boost for your mental wellbeing.
Beyond the positive effects of artsy activities like painting or going to concerts, there are loads of other hobbies that can give your overall mental health a lift. These are some of them below:
Things like going for a walk, jogging, cycling or playing sports aren’t just good for your body, they also do wonders for your mood.
When you exercise, your brain releases these awesome chemicals called endorphins that make you feel happy and less stressed.
Dive into Books – Reading, whether it’s fiction or non-fiction, is like a mini escape for your mind.
It doesn’t just chill you out, it helps you focus better and understand different points of view, which can make you more empathetic.
Also, spending time outdoors, getting your hands dirty in the garden is super relaxing. Watching plants grow and being surrounded by greenery has been proven to lower stress and make your mind clearer.
Rock Out with Music – Whether you are jamming out to your favorite tunes or playing an instrument, music has a powerful effect on your emotions.
It is not just about listening, making music can be a fantastic way to express yourself.
More so, practices like mindfulness and meditation are all about being in the present moment. They help cut down stress and bring a sense of calm to your mind.
You can do these through guided sessions, apps or just finding a quiet spot to chill.
Become a Kitchen Whiz – Cooking or Baking
Trying out new recipes and getting creative in the kitchen is not only satisfying but can also bring a lot of joy.
Plus, sharing your delicious creations with others can strengthen your social connections.
While on that, capturing moments through photos lets you be creative and notice the beauty around you. It is a mindful activity that can totally shift your perspective to a more positive one.
Strike a Pose with Yoga – Yoga combines physical postures, controlled breathing and meditation. It is like a package deal for your body and mind.
Also, reducing anxiety, boosting your mood and just making you feel good overall.
Also, helping others by volunteering gives a sense of purpose and makes you feel good. It is all about making a positive impact on your community and having a more positive outlook.
More so, engaging in continuous learning, be it through online courses, workshops or picking up new skills, keeps your mind active and gives you that sense of accomplishment.
Learning new things has even been linked to keeping your brain in top shape.
While on that, writing in a journal lets you express your thoughts and feelings. It is like your personal outlet for self-reflection, problem-solving and watching yourself grow over time.
Hang Out – Socializing
Spending quality time with friends and family is like a booster shot for your mental well-being. It gives you emotional support, helps fight loneliness and builds strong social connections.
Be aware that mixing up a bunch of these hobbies in your routine is like giving your mental health a balanced diet.
The key is to explore activities that match what you enjoy and what makes you happy. It is your mental health journey after all.
More so, the above study published in Frontiers in Public Health signifies the potential of recreational arts engagement as a valuable strategy for promoting mental well-being in older adults.
It encourages a diverse range of art-related activities and emphasizes the importance of individual preferences.
As the study notes, the gift of art, whether through creating playlists or participating in art courses could be a meaningful way to connect with older friends and relatives contributing to their overall well-being.