This month, we held our Pop-Up Market Day at Fairview Lifestyle Village. Our lounge was filled with stalls showcasing the creative talents of our residents: homemade preserves and baking, beautifully knitted children’s clothes, handcrafted wooden toys, greeting cards and art displays.
Each stall was a window into someone’s world – years of practice, patience and pride shared with neighbours and friends. There’s something really lovely about coming together as a community to showcase and connect through each other’s talents and passions.
In many ways, it was like a potluck – but instead of food, everyone brought a piece of themselves. Each handmade item was an offering of time, care and creativity, shared freely with the community. And while the market was full of laughter and conversation, it also reflected something deeper: the proven benefits of staying creative and engaged later in life.
Research shows that creative activities such as crafts, art, or baking can support cognitive function, improve mood and enhance overall well-being in older adults (Frontiers in Psychology, 2023).
The Art of Living Well
Crafting and creativity are more than hobbies – they’re powerful activities that boost wellbeing. Taking part in creative activities can lift mood, reduce stress, and help us feel more relaxed. And the benefits aren’t limited to those doing the crafting.
Simply attending creative events or enjoying art – known as receptive participation – can also boost wellbeing, strengthen immunity, and reduce the risk of illness and low mood. (Frontiers in Psychology, 2023).
At Fairview, creativity thrives because it’s part of a well-established community where there’s always an opportunity to learn, refine or master a craft.
Many residents take up hobbies for the first time – the ones they never had time for before. And the best part? You’re never doing it alone. There’s always someone ready to guide, share their skills, or lend a hand. That sense of encouragement and shared learning is what makes our community so special.
Residents also have the freedom to start something new of their own, and at Fairview, that is encouraged.
“So if you want to come in and start, say, a yoga class, you just say, ‘Can I have the room?’ and away you go.”
Whether it’s continuing a hobby you love or rediscovering one you’ve left behind, there’s plenty of opportunity – and plenty of support – to make it happen.
“I hadn’t played bowls before… I used to crochet and knit when I was younger, I’ll get back to that — but I’m just too busy at the moment!”
At Fairview, we celebrate the art of living well… creativity thrives because it’s part of a well-established community where there’s always something to join – and someone to share your passion with.
So, what have you always wanted to have a go at? Pop in to one of our open days and see what’s on offer.
Interested in learning more about the fascinating link between crafting and aging well? Check out the links below.
Research Links:
- Healthline – Crafts for older adults
- Bethesda Senior Living – Creative engagement for cognitive function
- SAGE Journals – Arts participation and social connectedness
