There are no days in life so memorable as those which vibrated to some stroke of the imagination.--Ralph Waldo Emerson

Imagination...originality...inspiring...novel...right brain...inventiveness... think outside the box--these are all words used to describe the creative process. The seeds of creativity live in everyone and, if nurtured, blossom throughout the lifespan and serve people well in their later years. Martha Graham danced until she was 75; Pablo Picasso painted in his 80's; Antonio Strativari was making violins at 92. Singer Tony Bennett, now in his 80's, has become as well-known for his oil paintings (under the name Anthony Benedetto) as for his legendary songs.

While most of us aren't Picasso, there is growing recognition of the vital relationship between creative expression and healthy aging. This concept is especially poignant in the PBS documentary (released summer 2007), "Do Not Go Gently" narrated by Walter Cronkite. The film explores the power of imagination in aging through tracing the creative lives of three extraordinary older artists: a musician, a dancer, and a quilter, ages 109, 90, and 82 respectively. The healing powers of imagination in people with Alzheimer's Disease is also presented.

Dr. Gene Cohen, noted researcher on the human brain and aging, has said that "art is like chocolate to the brain." He has put forth a number of fascinating, groundbreaking scientific theories suggesting that:

• creative activity can significantly improve the mind-body connection in senior populations, improving long term health and well being;
• although memories die, imagination does not and can be used as a pathway to the lively part of the brain; and
• changes in the brain with aging reduce creative inhibitions.

Learn more about creativity and the powerful impact it can have on one's life by fostering personal growth, sense of discovery, inspiration, and well being. And as a final thought...in the words of actress Jane Alexander, "Art knows no age. The body may change, but the imagination still burns bright."

Learn more about creativity and older adults:

• The George Washington University Medical Center, The Center on Aging, Health & Humanities
• National Center for Creative Aging
• Creativity & Aging
• "What We Know About Creativy and Older Adults", University of Missouri, Kansas City