Many seniors still wish to contribute to civilization and make a difference like everyone else. It is one of the importance of wisdom and the value of being old. Unfortunately, society doesn’t always address this need and, in a way, we all lose out in the long run.

It’s our belief that anyone can benefit from the wisdom of the older generation if society figures out a way to tap into this resource – the sooner, the better.

These people have seen and done it all. They are a reminder of the past and future. In our opinion, the elderly are the link that binds a community together and can put our problems into perspective through the unique insight gained from their own life experiences.

By turning to them, we’re also helping combat another problem: loneliness. Countless studies have linked loneliness as a core factor behind the decline in mental health for older adults. Given that WHO estimates the number of adults aged 60+ may increase from 900 million to around 2 billion between 2015 and 2050, it’s an issue that would be better attended to now rather than later.

How important is an older adult’s wisdom for society?

Most may not pay tax income anymore, but older people can still be a standing stone for society. The importance of wisdom cannot be over-emphasized. These people have had life experiences some of us can’t even begin to fathom. Some have lived through wars, witnessed historical events, and seen how the world has evolved in their many years.

Research has found that even though their brains don’t function as well as younger people’s, the elderly are often better at making decisions and understanding the effects their choices may bring.

Seniors don’t necessarily become wiser with age but come to view life differently. The older they get, the more positive and adaptive they become. They spend less time on anger, stress, and worry and gain a greater sense of well-being. Another importance of wisdom is that it can help manage these conditions.

As a result, older people can offer a different angle to every problem in ways some of us may overlook. 

They can also help preserve our communities’ traditions and cultural values, and pass on valuable insight into our understanding of the aging process, paving the way for doctors to help provide better care for seniors worldwide.

What can we do to preserve an older person’s wisdom?

Due to the significant importance of wisdom, there’s a need for a conscious effort to preserve the wisdom of the elderly. This can be done through:

• Volunteer activities: Seniors can partake in many voluntary movements. These can involve fundraising, general labor, or helping others their age. These tasks can help the elderly stay engaged in society, feel an increase in self-worth, and enjoy life more as they age.
• Education: Learning can stimulate the mind, lower the risk of dementia, and improve an older person’s ability to handle challenges.
• Exercise: Walking and dancing are just two of the many kinds of sports seniors can do. If there’s a will, then there’s a way. The fitter they are after all, the more likely they can remain independent and perhaps stay at home. 
• Socialization: Staying socially active helps prevent you from suffering from depression and isolation. It’s also a great mental stimulation. You could sign up for a book club, learning course, or discussion group. Anything that can trigger social interaction is worth looking up.

How art and craft can help

Art and craft stimulate the mind and body. It’s both a tactile and visual way for the elderly to express themselves, communicate with each other or loved ones, and raise morale. Art can also help seniors appreciate the importance of wisdom. The type of benefits people commonly find from this activity is a reduction in stress, which leads to a happier life, and the social connection it can create amongst their peers.

Other benefits include:

• A better quality of life
• Get over sadness.
• Improved brain function and cognitive reserve.
• Promote healthy behavioral habits.
• Greater life satisfaction.
• Learning to use hands when in pain.
• Better communication with friends or loved ones to reduce feelings of loneliness.
• Become less dependent on medication and require fewer visits to the doctor.

Research also claims that participating in art and crafts can have positive physical benefits. It can lower the risk of frailty in older people, as they are more physically active. Other reports have said art can reduce mental illness and psychological distress. All these are evident in the importance of wisdom.

Art can come in many forms. Such mediums include:

• Visual arts (drawing and painting, etc).
• Performing arts (drama and theater).
• Literature (writing and reading).
• Culture (museums and galleries).
• The digital arts (animation and filmmaking).

Not an artist? No problem!

You don’t need to be any kind of superstar to do art – or be any good at it!

Doing art is a process that is scientifically proven to improve the brain and raise morale. It allows us to live in the moment and see things differently. So it doesn’t matter how good or bad your final piece looks; the important thing is you find peace and joy in doing it.

Remember, art is for all, and you don’t need to show or compare your work to anyone else.

How HeyArt can contribute

If you’re up for giving art and craft a chance, HeyArt has you covered!

We provide an educational platform explicitly designed to connect and support seniors as they try their hand at a range of art and craft courses right from the comfort of their own homes.

At HeyArt, we believe art is an activity for everyone and seek to empower our students by improving their self-confidence, coordination, and minds while building long-lasting social connections.

All our courses have detailed study guides, practical assignments, and multiple-choice quizzes to complete at your leisure. Most of our materials are free, while others require a basic fee. You only need to register your details on HeyArt.info, and you’re all good to go!

HeyArt mission is to give you a little bit of focus and peace of mind every other day through Art & Craft learning online.
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