PANEL CREATIVE ARTS AND HEALTH
May 21, 1-2pm
Roundhouse Theatre

Naomi Brand will moderate this chat with Angela Brooks, Rachel Helten, Caroline Liffman and Lesley Telford, who come together to discuss​ the transformative potential of the arts in enhancing the lives of older adults through the lens of both artistic expression and health services. As our population ages, the need for holistic approaches to health and well-being has never been more urgent. This conversation delves into the intersection of creativity and care, celebrating the arts as a vital force for resilience, connection, and healing in later life.
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Creative aging emphasizes the idea that aging is not simply a biological process but a deeply human one, enriched by opportunities for growth, expression, and joy. Research has shown that participation in the arts—whether painting, music, dance, or storytelling—can improve mental health, reduce isolation, and even slow cognitive decline. From a health services perspective, integrating arts into care models provides innovative ways to address challenges like loneliness, depression, and physical limitations while fostering dignity and autonomy.

Our panelists bring diverse expertise to this conversation, sharing insights, real-world examples, and strategies to integrate the arts into community programs and healthcare systems. Together, we aim to uncover the opportunities and challenges in advancing creative aging initiatives, inspiring collaboration between the arts and health sectors.

Let us reimagine what it means to age creatively and explore how the arts can empower older adults to thrive in body, mind, and spirit.