How Crocheting can be used to Improve the Health of Seniors

Senior Care in Water Mill NY

Art therapy activities have been found to be a successful practice for aging adults because of its calming affects, removing any negative thoughts of their current physical or emotional problems. Knitting and crocheting require seniors to completely focus on the task, which will stimulate their mind and alleviate feelings of depression, worry, or anxiety. Since crocheting does stimulate the mind, it has also been known to combat cognitive impairments. A 2012 study was conducted by the Mayo Clinic with over 1,300 survey respondents, 200 of whom had cognitive problems. The researchers discovered that those who participated in crafting, computer activities, read books, or played games were 30 to 50 percent less likely to have mild cognitive problems compared to those who did not. By engaging in complex crafting activities like crocheting, elders will notice a healthier life. Here are some of the benefits that can be found through crocheting.

Mood Improvement
Many people have found that by becoming involved in this activity, they are able to overcome any negative feelings they have in a positive way. It has also been thought of as soothing, therapeutic, and meditative.

Boosts Creativity
When it comes to the patterns, colors, designs, and textures, the possibilities are endless. Seniors are able to unleash their creativity to produce a product that is designed exactly how they want and is something that they can be proud of when it is completed.

Socialization
Crocheting is often done in groups, especially during art therapy sessions. It allows the elders the opportunity to crochet alongside others in their community who are equally as intrigued in the activity, giving the senior plenty of socialization and connections among other people.

Enhanced Hand-Eye Coordination
Concentration is the key ingredient to crafting scarves, hats, or other crocheting items. Paying close attention to the details that goes into each item created will improve the elder’s hand-eye coordination, as a therapeutic way to overcome physical obstacles that are standing in their way.

Builds Self-Esteem
For those seniors who are not experienced at crocheting, being able to learn a new skill, expressing themselves through their works of art, and feeling productive are all reasons crocheting can be used to build the self-esteem of older people.

Dementia May be Postponed or Reduced
A study was conducted that proved 50% of dementia may be reduced through soothing crocheting activities among those that are experiencing signs of dementia.

Helps During the Grieving Process
Losing a loved one is never easy and can provide feelings of loneliness, depression, or sadness. This activity can take the elder’s mind off of their loss by using their energy to complete their project. The feel and look of the item may be just what the senior needs to feel a little better.

Crocheting in art therapy is not just about the finished product, but also about the creative process. It has had amazing results among people of all ages and with different physical or emotional ailments, but has proven to be especially powerful among the aging population. These are just a few of the reasons why this activity is great for their health.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring professional senior care services in Water Mill, NY, call the caring staff at Artful Home Care today at 631-685-5001.

Source
Mascarelli, Amanda. “Might crafts such as knitting offer long-term health benefits?” April 21, 2014.

Vercillo, Kathryn. “10 Most Important Health Benefits of Yarncrafting.” May 20, 2014.