Research on the aging process has shown that participating in the arts contributes to positive aging, promoting personal growth, enhanced well-being, and social engagement. Dr Gene Cohen’s landmark study on Arts and Aging illuminates how the creative arts promotes healthier aging.
YDL has embraced this idea by offering several creative aging workshops for those 55 years and older. Local professional artists partner with the library to offer free instructional programs that build skills in the arts through participatory workshops and culminate in a public sharing.
Recent courses in the Creative Aging series have included:
- Acrylic Painting: with artist Debra Golden
- Photography: with Jennifer Baker, guest course taught by Rose Eichenbaum
- Writing: with author and EMU Professor Heather Neff
- Drama: Literature Alive led by EMU Professor Anita Richer
- Reminiscence writing: with librarian Sally Haines Lawler