Creativity – the use of the imagination or original ideas, especially in the production of an artistic work.
Last Wednesday we had so much fun! It was the photo shoot for our annual Edenton calendar. It might seem early, but the process started a couple of months ago, brainstorming the theme and then selecting the shots that we reproduce. All this time working to get the calendar in the hands of our residents, families, staff, and the general community by early December.
What started in 2018 to highlight our residents and staff as the stars they are, has proven challenging too. The pandemic threw us a curve when we could not gather everyone for the annual photos due to the unknown nature of the virus. But creativity kicked in when we decided to use our Resident’s own artwork as features for the 2021 calendar and then again in 2022 when we used our staff and resident as superheroes they are every day. We have so many creative people.
Everyone asks, do we start with the movie idea or the resident first? That is a hard one to answer. We really start with over 20 to 25 pictures and then think about the resident(s) who fit the theme and scene. How do we get from the green screen and multiple shots to the final? A lot of creativity, a fabulous photographer, and a stupendous graphic designer! Wait until you see the 1980’s themed movies and how we get from Bev and Ed on the scooter to Top Gun!
But the creativity on our campus is amazing! Every area of the campus has creative ideas and activities going on each week. Ongoing research suggests that creativity may be the key to healthy aging. Singing groups, theatre, visual arts, poetry, and creative writing may all work to improve cognitive function and memory, improving self-esteem and well-being (National Institute of Health).
Not everyone is a singer, a musician, dancer, or writer. But there are plenty of individuals who express interest in learning and participation as a means to remain active and engaged.
That is what we want to continue to encourage and offer – a variety of creative outlets and ways to express oneself.
I know there are Residents and staff already working on arts and crafts for the December Holiday Bazaar. Some are making jewelry. Others are making creative display boxes and others working on various craft and sewing items.
You will see a picture of our Blossomettes in the August newsletter. A complimentary group of residents from Blossom Place who are a spin off from the weekly Lifetime singers group who meet every Wednesday with Chaplain Therese. They love to sing and enjoy music.
And today on Facebook, Edenton posted our poetry group using the gazebo in the center courtyard. It was a perfect morning to be outside while enjoying each other’s company while reading and writing poetry.
Check out our monthly activity schedules posted on the website. There are lots of opportunities for each person to be creative and help to bring creativity into the lives of seniors here at Edenton.
