The Transformative Power of the Arts: Enriching Lives Through Theater and Creative Expression
At Westmont Living, we believe that creative expression is more than just a pastime—it’s a pathway to wellness, connection, and joy. As part of our Live Your Way® lifestyle philosophy, we embrace a whole-body approach to wellness, grounded in the Six Dimensions of Wellness as defined by the National Wellness Institute. One of the most impactful of these dimensions is Creative Expression & Art, which encourages self-awareness, emotional well-being, and an optimistic outlook on life.
Through painting, music, theater, and dance, our Residents are rediscovering old passions, developing new talents, and connecting with each other in meaningful ways. Who knows—you just might discover a hidden artistic gift or a renewed sense of joy.
Arts and Aging: A Powerful Connection
The growing body of research continues to affirm what we see every day in our communities: the arts are profoundly beneficial for aging well. A 2023 systematic review published in Frontiers in Psychology analyzed 10 studies involving nearly 7,900 older adults. The findings were clear that active and receptive arts engagement, such as attending theater, painting, or playing music, was associated with slower cognitive decline, enhanced emotional well-being, and a higher quality of life in healthy older adults.
Most recently, 2025 longitudinal research published on ScienceDirect suggests that consistent participation in creative arts may offer protective cognitive benefits over time. While the science is still emerging, these studies point to the long-term value of maintaining artistic activities for mental acuity and emotional resilience.
Theater in Action: Spotlight on Communities
We’ve seen the benefits of arts engagement firsthand in our communities. Residents at The Oaks at Nipomo and The Oaks at Paso Robles have been delighted by visits from The Central Coast Follies, a dynamic group of performers who dance, sing, and entertain, all while raising funds for causes like Parkinson’s Disease research and local charities including the SLO Food Bank and Central Coast Autism Spectrum Center.
These performances don’t just entertain, but they inspire. They open up opportunities for our Residents to connect with the community, enjoy shared laughter, and relive cherished memories through song and dance.
“I have been a part of theater and doing musicals for a good chunk of my life,” shared Roger S., “so getting to go watch shows allows me to feel like I’m on stage again. We (his wife and him) always try to stay supportive of the arts and local theater and do our best to still attend shows when we can.”
At The Oaks at Nipomo, Lifestyle Director Joel Wadlow has gone above and beyond to bring theater directly to his Residents. From arranging community showings to organizing outings, like the recent trip to Shrek the Musical at Forbes Hall with the Central Coast Theater Company. Joel ensures the stage lights are always shining.
“It’s not just about watching a performance,” Joel shared. “It’s about sparking joy, conversation, and a sense of wonder. Theater brings us together—it’s emotional, it’s personal, and it stays with you.”
Living Your Way Through the Arts
At Westmont Living, Live Your Way® means embracing life on your terms—with your style, your choices, and your passions. Whether that’s painting, singing, storytelling, or attending a live show, the arts help our Residents stay engaged, connected, and fulfilled.
Creative expression is ageless and it’s never too late to pick up a paintbrush, take in a show, or dance to a familiar tune. In our communities, the arts are more than entertainment, they’re essential to living fully, vibrantly, and meaningfully.
Interested in learning more about how Westmont Living supports creativity and connection through the arts? Contact your local community or schedule a visit to see the inspiration in action.
Articles:
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1232357/full?utm_source=chatgpt.com
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1041610225002868?utm_source=chatgpt.com
