The Seniors Art Program, initiated by the OCAC on Jan 1 2016, known in the community as Aging Artfully, offers painting and arts/craft instruction for seniors in the Oceanside Region. It is delivered to residents by locally recognized artists on a volunteer basis. The program currently operates in four care residences in Parksville and Qualicum Beach including: The Gardens, Qualicum Manor, Cokely Manor, and Arrowsmith Lodge, as well as a biannual program offered to domiciled seniors at the McMillan Arts Centre.
The Seniors Art Program incorporates the concept that art is an effective form of therapy that:
-
Promotes a sense of purpose and accomplishment
-
Fosters a stronger sense of Identity.
-
Provides active engagement to occupy the mind, enhancing memory and cognitive function
-
Helps with feelings of depression and anxiety, and boosts mood
-
Is relaxing and increases a sense of well being
-
Affords seniors with social benefits and the opportunity to improve their motor skills
The Seniors Art program offers watercolour and acrylic painting to senior participants of all skill and care levels. The seniors who have participated in our programs find them a relaxing and meaningful activity that aims to help them realize their individual creative nature.
