by Ana Ruth Lugo Mejia

OMAHA, Neb.- A creative program through the state’s libraries is making a difference in the lives of seniors.
 
The Creative Aging Arts program offers adults ages 55 and up diverse arts activities like painting, printmaking, and writing. The program was a welcome addition to the library in La Vista. Public Services Librarian Cedate Schultz says the library doesn’t usually offer programming for this age demographic.
 
“A lot of the purpose of this program is to kind of keep your brain working as you age, and that exploring learning new things. Keeps our brain going and is going to help with the healthy aging process," Schultz said. "Certainly, it gets people to try new things, step out of their comfort zone. I think as we age, we tend to be very stuck, you know, in our routines.”
 
The program is being implemented across the state and is funded by grants through the Nebraska Arts Council and the Nebraska Cultural Endowment with help from the Library Commission and Medica.
 
The intent to foster social connections and cognitive engagement. Over five weeks, the La Vista participants created family history prints, collages, and acrylic paintings.
 
“I really, really enjoyed watching some friendships form, I think some new friendships formed. And, you know, I think as we age, we tend to isolate.”
 
The final session showcased their work. The organizer hopes to continue the program, emphasizing its benefits for healthy aging and community engagement.
 
“I would love to do this again, though there's no plan for this specific program. No, not yet. But I would also like to help other libraries and other organizations who maybe are a little not sure about the process, bring this to their community, because it's such a gift to be able to provide this that, you know, our state still provides these funds for us to be able to serve our community”.