Music, Art and Creativity in Later Life
Creative activities like singing, painting and writing can be deeply rewarding. Learn how to get started, find classes and enjoy the arts at any skill level.
The short version
- You do not need talent or experience to enjoy creative activities.
- Community choirs, art classes and writing groups combine creativity with social connection.
- Many museums, libraries and senior centers offer free or low-cost programs.
In this guide
Many people put creative interests aside during busy working and parenting years. Later life can be a wonderful time to return to them, or to try something entirely new. Creative activities offer enjoyment, a sense of accomplishment and often a chance to connect with others.
The National Endowment for the Arts supports "creative aging" programs across the country, reflecting a growing interest in arts participation among older adults.
You do not have to be "good" at it
One of the biggest barriers to creativity is the worry about not being talented. The goal is not to produce a masterpiece. It is to enjoy the process, express yourself and learn. Many people discover abilities they never knew they had.
Ideas to explore
Music
- Join a community choir. Many welcome singers of all levels and do not require auditions.
- Learn an instrument, such as ukulele, piano or harmonica.
- Join a drum circle or community band.
- Listen to live music at free concerts in parks and libraries.
Visual arts
- Take a beginner watercolor, drawing or pottery class.
- Try adult coloring books or sketching outdoors.
- Learn photography with your smartphone.
- Experiment with collage or mixed media.
Writing
- Keep a journal.
- Write your memoir or family stories.
- Join a writing group at your library.
- Try poetry or short fiction.
Crafts
- Knitting, crocheting and quilting
- Woodworking or woodcarving
- Jewelry making
- Scrapbooking
Performing arts
- Community theater, which needs actors, set builders, costume makers and ushers
- Dance classes, such as ballroom, line dancing or tap
- Storytelling groups
Where to find classes and groups
- Senior centers and community centers
- Public libraries, which often host writing groups, craft workshops and concerts
- Museums, many of which offer free admission days, guided tours and art-making programs
- Community colleges and lifelong learning programs
- Art supply stores, which sometimes offer workshops
- Online tutorials for learning at your own pace
Adapting creative activities
If arthritis or other conditions make some activities harder, try:
- Brushes and pens with larger grips
- Easels or tabletop stands to reduce bending
- Large-print sheet music or knitting patterns
- Magnifying lamps for detailed work
- Shorter sessions with breaks
Creative activities with others
Many creative hobbies are naturally social. Sharing a project, performing in a group or simply chatting while working side by side can be as rewarding as the creative work itself. Consider inviting a friend to a class, or starting a small group that meets regularly to paint, write or play music.
Enjoying the arts as an audience
Attending concerts, plays, art exhibits and readings is another way to enjoy creativity. Many venues offer senior discounts, free preview performances or pay-what-you-can nights. Ask at the box office.
