Seniors Connect through Art at Senior Americans Day

Posted 6/7/2017

Adult art projects, like coloring, have become a trend in recent years because of their link to health benefits for older adults. The director from a local senior care facility will share her love of art with community members at Senior Americans Day on June 6. 

“I’m passionate about developing creative opportunities for all ages, especially the elderly.” said Autumn Village Assisted Living Apartments Director Diane Rowe. 

Rowe will be presenting at Senior Americans Day at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, and her presentation, “Art & Aging: The Creativity Connection” will combine her work with seniors with her former career as a school teacher. Participants will learn about the health benefits of creativity in aging, as well as create a special art project to take home. The event was featured on WEAU. 

In her work with Grace Lutheran Communities, which manages American Lutheran Communities, Rowe has worked with seniors in a number of facilities throughout the Chippewa Valley, encouraging them to get creative. She helped organize coloring parties for residents and community members, as well as coordinated art creation for public spaces within the organization. 

“I believe creative experiences improve our quality of life,” said Rowe. 

American Lutheran Communities has been helping our friends and neighbors in communities all over the western Wisconsin since 1949. The non-profit organization specializes in rehabilitation, assisted living and skilled nursing at American Lutheran Communities-Menomonie, American Lutheran Communities-Mondovi, Hillview Senior Living and Autumn Village Assisted Living Apartments.