theconnectionsnj.com HOME & DESIGN PAGE 52 Friendly In-Home Service COMPUTERS MOBILE TUTORING WiFi (908) 242-3322 | MyTechGuy.com | 8 Mtn. Blvd, Warren Stimulating our senses as we age is an important goal, and there are countless ways to have fun doing so. We can listen to music to improve our sense of hearing. Or taste different foods to encourage our taste buds. Feeling textures or sensuous fabrics stimulates touch, while smelling fragrances challenges our sense of smell as we get older. The ability to see, however, seems to be a major key to maintaining independence, and there are countless ways to “build that muscle.” Our daughters brought coloring books and markers to their grandmother on one of their visits to Chelsea at Warren. My mother-in-law was thrilled with the gift, but I wasn’t certain she would take the time to actually accustom herself to using them. Just last week, though, months later, when my husband visited Mom, she was coloring and very proud of her accomplishments. She was always artistic and tried her hand at painting throughout the years. But this is a new experience. Like every hobby, it takes patience and practice to see the results one desires. Keeping one’s brain active and engaged is a challenge for seniors, but repetitive activities certainly help. Focusing on the picture, deciding what colors to use, staying within the lines (if that is one’s goal), and planning the next place to color-all take concentration and attention, as well as imagination. Many facilities have arts and crafts centers that become a gathering place. Creating with one’s hands feels very engaging-even for those with arthritis or other inflammatory conditions. People share their lives as they are painting, coloring, or doing other creative activities. Watching others create is also motivating and enjoyable, and often provides ideas for future projects. The addition of music stimulates the auditory system, as well. The brain responds well to soothing sounds, and equally well to a rhythmic beat. A few safely placed candles provide scent which aids the olfactory system, and even petting a dog provides tactile sensation. Imagine engaging and enhancing the five senses in one wonderful session, and taking back a beautiful picture to one’s room. What a fantastic reminder of the talent and focus we still have! Keeping one’s brain active and engaged is a challenge for seniors, but repetitive activities certainly help. By Ellyn Mantell Coloring the World for Seniors SENIOR CORNER
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