Eating healthy, remaining physically fit and cultivating friendships are vital to achieving your goals of aging and living well. But did you know there are two other areas that can greatly contribute to the quality of your life? Being active in the arts and lifelong learning can each play pivotal roles.
The benefits of learning as you grow older
If lifelong learning is one of your retirement goals, you aren’t alone. In a recent AARP study on the subject, 55% of Americans aged 45 and older stated they are purposely seeking knowledge.
With the aim of staying mentally sharp and intellectually stimulated, activities mentioned ranged from learning to play a new musical instrument, studying the science of breadmaking or learning new technology.
The study found little difference between the genders. Goals for men and women included continuing to learn as ways to contribute to personal well-being and keeping their brains active.
A study of 416 adults aged 60 and over by the National Library of Medicine also found that there was a positive association with psychological wellbeing when participating in a public continuing education program. The conclusion was that older adults might use this strategy to strengthen their reserve capacities, allowing them to experience more fulfillment in their everyday lives.
Enrich your retired life: enjoy the arts
According to the National Institutes of Health, older adults who participate in the arts may also achieve an improvement in their health, well-being and independence.
Testing the impact of participating in a community choir was conducted with 400 culturally diverse adults aged 60 and older. The cognitive, physical and psychosocial functions were assessed as well as the use of their healthcare services before and after the program.
The discovery? Within six months, participants noted decreased feelings of loneliness and an increase in their outlook on life. This was attributed to the ability to meet new people, build social connections and increase their sense of belonging.
Preliminary results from older adults newly diagnosed with dementia also showed improvement in mood, decreased anxiety and an increase in a sense of belonging after participating in a theater improvisation program. The continuing research on music, theater, dance, creative writing and other participatory arts looks promising for improved quality of life and well-being in older adults.
Enjoying the art and learning opportunities in the Wadsworth and Waukegan area
- Russell Military Museum located in Zion, IL. The museum is dedicated in providing education about U.S. wars, with over 300 vehicles on display.
- Haines Museum located in Waukegan, IL. Discover the history of Waukegan in this free museum.
- Ray Bradbury Experience Museum located in Waukegan, IL. Explore his inspirational hometown with exhibits and activities.
- The African American Museum at the England Manor located in Waukegan, IL. Visit this historic home museum and story of the owner, Sylvia England.
- Bess Bower Dunn Museum of Lake County located in Libertyville, IL. Take advantage of their adult and senior programs and learn more about the incredible Bess Bower Dunn.
- National Museum of the American Sailor located in North Chicago, IL. Discover the only museum exclusively dedicated to the American sailor.
- Waukegan to College: become a volunteer mentor in Waukegan, IL to a high school student and help them create a successful path to college.
- Waukegan Public Library located in Waukegan, IL. Explore educational programs, genealogy or local history, just to mention a few ideas.
- Lake County Law Library located in Waukegan, IL. You’ll find books, microfiche and periodicals as well as materials published by the Illinois Institute of Continuing Legal Education.
- Waukegan Savanna Forest Preserve located in Waukegan, IL. Try birdwatching and enjoy hiking trails, meandering streams and wetlands.
- Van Patten Woods located in Wadsworth, IL. The perfect location for outdoor learning, including hiking, biking, horseback riding, boating, fishing and cross-country skiing.
How a senior living community promotes learning and art appreciation
For those looking for a more convenient and easy way to pursue your life-long learning and artistic possibilities, you might want to check out everything that a senior living community has to offer. They do the research and scheduling. All you need to do is show up with an interest in learning more and experiencing new adventures.
From on-site art studios and educational lectures to off-site visits to museums and galleries, you’ll find your goal of continuing your education easy to achieve.
Retirement living in Wadsworth, Illinois
Galloway Senior Living, locally owned and operated, provides luxury and quality care for families in our community.
Assisted Living at Galloway Senior Living offers beautiful and contemporary private residences that range from alcove studios to two-bedrooms and include high-end stainless-steel appliances, maple hardwood cabinets, cultured marble countertops and thoughtfully curated décor and colors.
Our Memory Care community offers a family kitchen, dining room, walking garden, and lounge.
Our services include:
- 24-hour certified nursing assistants, on-staff licensed nurses, medication management, and on-site physician visits
- COVID-19 safety protocols
- Assistance with daily tasks
- Readily available safe transportation
- A fall-reduction program
- In-unit emergency response systems including an electronic monitoring system for exit doors
- On-site entertainment and activities personalized to reflect the residents’ preferences
- Housekeeping and linen services including personal laundry
Amenities you’ll find at Galloway Senior Living include:
- Country Café and Convenience Store
- Salon and Spa
- Theater with 85” television
- Activity and Craft Center
- Game Room
- Library and Business Center
- Fitness Center
If you or your family is considering retirement living in Wadsworth, Illinois, we hope you will visit our community at Galloway Senior Living. We are a trusted resource and are here to answer any questions.
We also invite you to download our complimentary information, Family Decision Toolkit: How to Choose the Right Senior Living Community.
