Geriart

GeriArt, an innovative program created by Neo Film School and Neo Media Trust in partnership with CEDAC, under the Age-Friendly Kochi City Initiative. Its goal is to encourage active participation of older adults in the arts and creative fields, facilitating skill development and promoting economic independence for seniors. This initiative not only enhances their well-being but also provides a platform for them to learn, create, and contribute to society.

GeriArt empowers older adults to engage with their communities, supporting their mental, physical, and emotional health. By collaborating with CEDAC, which represents the WHO Global Network of Age-Friendly Cities in Kochi, GeriArt follows global best practices, aiming to be a model for other cities. The program emphasizes inclusivity and engagement, aligning with the WHO's mission to create supportive environments for older adults. Health and Wellbeing Benefits: The health and well-being benefits of GeriArt extend across multiple domains.

Physical Health

Participation in creative activities promotes physical coordination and overall mobility. Many artistic activities involve light physical exercise, which contributes to improved flexibility and strength. Additionally, visual arts that require fine motor skills help counteract the decline often seen in older adults, promoting hand-eye coordination and overall dexterity.

Healthy Aging is closely linked to ongoing engagement in creative and cognitive activities. The holistic approach of GeriArt integrates mental, physical, emotional, and social aspects of health, allowing older adults to continue learning and creating. This engagement fosters a greater sense of purpose and fulfillment, critical components of healthy aging.

Mental and Emotional Health

Engaging in creative pursuits has profound effects on cognitive functioning, enhancing memory retention and attention span. Studies have shown that participation in art-related activities can delay the onset of dementia and other cognitive decline. The emotional benefits of self-expression through art and cinema are equally significant; creative engagement reduces anxiety, stress, and depression, providing older adults with an essential outlet for emotional release

Spiritual Health

Creative activities often promote self-reflection and emotional depth, which can lead to spiritual growth.Participating in arts and storytelling provides seniors with a sense of purpose and fulfillment, allowing them to reflect on their life experiences and the legacy they wish to leave behind

Neurophysiology of Aging and Healthy Aging

Engaging in creative activities positively impacts the neurophysiology of aging. Research has demonstrated that artistic engagement stimulates neural pathways, promoting cognitive plasticity and improving brain function. Activities such as music, drama, and visual arts activate various parts of the brain responsible for emotional regulation, problem-solving, and memory retention. This stimulation can help maintain mental acuity and slow down neurodegenerative processes commonly associated with aging

Social Health

Group activities foster social connections and combat feelings of loneliness and isolation, prevalent issues among older adults. By participating in collaborative projects, seniors build relationships that can lead to a greater sense of community and belonging. Furthermore, intergenerational engagement encourages younger individuals to learn from the experiences of older adults, fostering mutual respect and understanding.

Social Outcomes

GeriArt aims to produce significant social outcomes that extend beyond individual benefits. By showcasing the talents of older adults, the program challenges ageist stereotypes and emphasizes the ongoing contributions of seniors to society. The initiative fosters a community where older adults feel valued and included, enhancing their overall quality of life. Additionally, GeriArt promotes intergenerational exchange, creating opportunities for younger generations to engage with and learn from older adults. This exchange not only strengthens social cohesion but also encourages respect for the wisdom and experiences of senior citizens, ensuring that their stories and insights are passed down.