Content area
Full Text
Creativity is magical: Where nothing existed before, creativity sparks the birth of something new and unique. Bringing creativity into older adults' worlds also is magical. With guidance and encouragement, creative inspiration can transform a life, filling it with confidence, enthusiasm and social engagement.
At age 61, I am happy in my work with older adults - work that has followed many paths. I help organizations to start up or improve their creative arts programs. I train activity professionals to think "outside the box" and effectively engage in the creative process. Additionally, I have developed a program to teach creative crafts to elders, and design craft kits for people with fine motor skill difficulties and cognitive issues. Also, there is my blog, "Creativity Matters", in which I write about what impacts and inspires us in the creative landscape as we age. I am a true believer in creativity: It is the powerful engine that makes things happen. Let me tell you Susan's story.
CREATIVITY INSPIRES, HEALS
Susan had been a lifelong crafter but, at age 67, she began losing her fine motor skills after the sudden onset of cervical dystonia. This painful neurological condition distorted her neck, spine and shoulders, with relief coming only through medication. For temporary relief, dystonia patients are counseled to try displacement activities such as touching their faces, but none of these methods worked for Susan.
Susan had chronic pain, took heavy medication for it and experienced a progressive loss of mobility. By age...