Researchers get creative to support healthy ageing minds
Researchers will investigate how the creative arts can support healthy brains and heathy minds as we age.
The multi-disciplinary University of Newcastle research team, led by Associate Professor Helen English, has secured a $75,000 Dementia Australia Research Foundation grant to run the project.
Keeping active in later life is important for maintaining social, cognitive and emotional wellbeing as well as delaying or preventing the onset of dementia.
Creative arts activities offer a promising approach to engage thinking, emotions, creativity and imagination; and complement physical activity to promote wellbeing in older adulthood.
The interdisciplinary team comprising Dr Sharon Savage, Dr Michelle Kelly and Professor Frini Karayanidis together with Associate Professor Helen English will run a comparative research study investigating the effects of art making and song writing on brain, cognitive and emotional processes in older adults. The aim is to identify the important ingredients of creative activity programs that drive benefits in wellbeing.
Related news
- Team sport the MVP for kicking kids’ mental health goals
- I2N selected to help more women turn their ideas into viable ventures
- Blueprint for FEE-FREE Uni Ready courses unveiled
- University of Newcastle officially opens new Gosford building
- Australia’s longest-running women’s health study celebrates 30-year milestone
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.