Arts & Drama

Providing creative opportunities for older people is one of the central tenets of Third Age because growing older can be a time for discovery and rediscovery. Some members have had little opportunity to engage in creative activities during their earlier lives, and older age provides the opportunity to unlock this creative potential.

The drama workshops, coordinated by producer, John Grant, include a Movement to Music module, memory games and other dramatic approaches to stimulate creativity and self-expression. Art activities also develop the self-confidence of participants and provide an excellent social outlet.

Creative programmes include events organised to coincide with Bealtaine, the annual festival celebrating creativity in older people, drama workshops that run from September to June, arts activities undertaken with residents from St Joseph’s Hospital, Trim and members of the Navan Travellers Education Centre

Other creative work integrates art and health. This includes reminiscence sessions, crafts such as jewellery-making, clay modelling and pressed flower pictures, all of which help with hand- eye skills, dexterity and concentration. Research with patients suggests occupational therapy can result in many benefits including faster recovery times, reductions in medication and increased mobility and motivation towards optimum health. Older people who are well can benefit also.