Creative Expression a Cornerstone of Life at United
“Creativity is contagious. Pass it on.” – Albert Einstein
Listening to an exceptionally talented pianist or putting a paintbrush to canvas touch only a small part of the extensive list of programs that United offers residents at its two communities. United’s new winter program guides for Garrison Green and Fish Creek highlight a wide variety of exciting programs coming up over the next three months. Thanks to United’s partnerships, residents will be heading out to see the St. Mary’s University Choir, Calgary Civic Symphony, Lunchbox Theatre, Mount Royal Conservatory’s Sounds of the Season, Calgary Pro Musica, the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra and many others.
“Researchers have long studied how getting older affects us, but only recently has the research focused on the positive aspects of aging, including a renewed interest in creativity and the social aspects that brings. We’re finding that age is no barrier to creativity,” said Kim Coulter, United’s creative expressions manager. “United provides the right atmosphere and opportunity for residents to express themselves. Our philosophy is to encourage residents to do that through the arts: singing, music, drawing, painting, dance, pottery and sculpture, plus the opportunity to attend professional and amateur performances both outside the community and in our own theatres.”
United’s extensive list of programs and activities – both specialty programs and events, and regular programs – sets United apart through the variety that is offered, and the program partnerships with Calgary’s art and cultural organizations.
“At United, being creative isn’t a hobby. It’s a way of life,” said Monica Schmidt, program coordinator, United’s Garrison Green community. “We have professional artists on staff who provide support for every level, from those who have never picked up a brush or a handful of clay, to residents who were attracted to United because they can continue their lifelong passion for art.”
United has fully stocked art studios at both Garrison Green and Fish Creek communities, plus art galleries to display resident artworks as well as showings of professional work. Not only is it fun, but expression through the arts can have health benefits researchers are just starting to understand.
As well, participation in the arts encourages connecting with others and making new friends – a cornerstone of United’s philosophy. Research shows that older adults who are the most socially engaged remain healthy and active. Communities develop when everyone has a choice, when residents are active, learning new things and participating in community events that they find interesting and stimulating.
United’s comprehensive guides of upcoming specialty and ongoing programs at both communities is available online. Each contains about 30 pages of programs so that residents and their families can see what’s available and make plans to participate.
Both guides are online at these links:
“When you see everything written down in one location, you realize just how extensive the programs are,” said Kim. “It’s what makes living in a United community exciting and fun. There’s always something new and the programs are changing and evolving all the time based on resident input.”
Photos by Sherana Productions, United Active Living, Mount Royal Conservatory. Video by Sherana Productions
Do you know a friend or family member who could benefit from living in a United community? Send them a link to our website or blog, or arrange a tour. We are happy to help!
To learn more about life at United’s Garrison Green, watch this short video.
