The Healing Power of Art: Creativity That Enriches Retirement

Most people have heard of art therapy, a recognized form of psychotherapy that encourages self-expression through painting, drawing, sculpture, or other creative activities. It can help people communicate emotions that are difficult to put into words and is used both as a therapeutic tool and, in some cases, as an aid in diagnosis. Psychology Today maintains a directory of art therapists, including practitioners in Sussex County.

Rehoboth Beach resident Dr. Alexis McKenzie, Ph.D., explains it this way.

“Art therapy is interpreting what a client is trying to express without words and then talking about it with them,” she said. “It’s about exploring what each figure or brushstroke might mean and then helping the client turn those feelings into workable solutions for their concerns.”

In simple terms, art therapy combines the creative process with mental health care, helping people process emotions, reduce stress, and work through life’s challenges.

McKenzie spent 25 years in the field of psychology and remains a Certified Dementia Practitioner. She previously served as a dementia consultant to 18 skilled nursing and continuing care retirement communities, specializing in Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.

But even outside of formal art therapy, McKenzie believes that making art—or simply appreciating it—can be especially beneficial as we grow older.

“Art comes in many forms,” she said. “If someone decides to try art and has never done it before, they’ll discover it’s an excellent way to stimulate the brain.”

According to McKenzie, learning new artistic skills encourages the growth of dendrites, the branching structures in the brain that help strengthen memory and learning.

She also suggests stepping outside your comfort zone.

“Rather than just trying different styles of painting, it can be even more beneficial to move from painting to learning pottery, sculpture, glasswork, or another art form you’ve never tried before.”

The brain, she explains, thrives on new experiences that promote neuroplasticity—its remarkable ability to form new neural connections and adapt throughout life.

McKenzie practices what she teaches. As an artist, she has explored watercolor, acrylics, mixed media, abstract art, and handmade creative journals.

“As an artist, I feel a great sense of freedom, satisfaction, excitement, and challenge whenever I create.”

Ceramics artist Millie Crotty believes working with clay offers its own therapeutic rewards.

“Clay is such a tactile material, and when you’re working with it you can’t think about anything else,” she said. “You’re present and in the moment, which is a form of meditation. It also teaches you to let go because there are so many steps, and you can’t always predict how a piece will turn out—especially when you’re just starting.”

Crotty operates her ceramics studio just off Cave Neck Road in Milton and taught at the Rehoboth Art League for many years. Other local instructors include Milton artist Nick Serratore, who teaches pastel painting and serves as Exhibition Director for the Rehoboth Art League, and Lewes artist Fred Dylla, who teaches woodcut printing.

Those interested in exploring their creative side have plenty of opportunities close to home. Classes and programs are available through the Rehoboth Art League, Milton Art Guild, Mispillion Art League, Greater Millsboro Art League, Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, and other community organizations.

If you’re looking for inspiration, the Rehoboth Art League’s 53rd Annual Outdoor Fine Art and Fine Craft Show offers a wonderful chance to appreciate the work of regional artists—or perhaps find the motivation to begin creating yourself. The event takes place over the weekends of August 1–2 and August 8–9.

Author Maribeth Fischer, founder of the Rehoboth Beach Writers Guild, also believes creativity plays an important role in healthy aging. The guild’s monthly Art in the AM program at the Lewes Public Library blends art, writing, and music and regularly attracts nearly 100 participants.

Fischer sees creative expression as another form of self-care, much like cooking, walking, birdwatching, or listening to music.

“Creating something during a time when we’re experiencing the loss of so much—friends and loved ones as we age, the environment, even civility—feels especially important,” she said. “Doing something that brings beauty into the world…how can that not make someone feel better?”

Whether it’s painting, pottery, writing, music, woodworking, or simply visiting a local gallery, engaging with the arts offers more than an enjoyable pastime. For many retirees, it’s an opportunity to keep learning, stay mentally active, connect with others, and discover new ways to enrich everyday life.

---

By Mary Jo Tarallo, Resident Journalist

Mary Jo Tarallo spent much of her career in public relations with various non-profits and spent 40 years involved with the ski industry as a journalist, public relations director for a national trade association and as executive director of the Learn to Ski and Snowboard initiative. Prior to her ski industry involvement she worked for the Maryland International Center in Baltimore and United Way of Central Maryland. She won a Gold Award for TV programming for a United Way simulcast that starred Oprah Winfrey. She has been cited for her work by numerous organizations. Mary Jo grew up in Baltimore, attended the University of Maryland and Towson University, lived in Washington, DC for 21 years and has been a full time resident of Rehoboth Beach and Milton since May 2019.