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What is Creative Aging?

The idea of “aging gracefully” has taken on new meaning. Attaining “a certain age” gives us a new opportunity to do, explore and get to know ourselves at a new stage of life.

Studies have shown that the most important component of aging well is community. But how do you find community as an older adult? One way is through the Arts. 

Creative Aging, or Aging Reframed as Jane Fonda describes it, is the practice of using artistic and creative engagement to enhance well-being, boost physical and cognitive abilities, and enrich our overall quality of life as we age. Older adults empowered by arts participation not only model vibrancy, value, and purpose for others. They shatter stereotypes and ageist beliefs, improving the experience of aging for themselves and generations to come.

Do you want to live longer, happier, healthier and more independently? Creative aging helps you achieve that.

Watch Jane Fonda’s message on  Creative Aging

Add 7.5 years to your life!

“I came into A&K as a person who loved to sing along with songs as they came at me. Now I’m learning how much more powerful it is to be a part of the music as it comes through us. With A&K I’m not just singing along… I’m singing with… as we create something new.”

– Sam, Ensemble Member

“The memorization is fabulous for our brains. If you want to do it, try. Find a way. It will help you live longer.”

– Norma, Ensemble Member

“The Alive & Kickin family has given me a new reason for living, a new purpose, of being accepted, and an increased desire for learning, achieving my dreams and continuing to reach for the stars!”

– Christine, Ensemble Member

    The Data Backs Up The Benefits

    A positive view of aging has a greater impact on longevity than gender, race, socioeconomic status, age, or health.

    75%*

    75% of adults aged 50–80 report music helps reduce stress and improve mental health

    7.5 years**

    Group music and story-sharing activities increases social engagement and improves how people experience and perceive aging, extending life by 7.5 years!

    *2023 – findings from a nationally representative survey conducted by NORC at the University of Chicago for IHPI) 

    **Levy BR, Slade MD, Kunkel SR, Kasl SV. Longevity increased by positive self-perceptions of aging. J Pers Soc Psychol. 2002 Aug;83(2):261-70. doi: 10.1037//0022-3514.83.2.261. PMID: 12150226

    Become an A&K Champion

    If you’ve enjoyed our shows and events, we invite you to become an A&K Champion by pledging a monthly donation. There are many costs associated with serving the community with free and low-cost programming. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit we rely on the generosity of individuals like you. Thank you for investing in our future!

    Yes, I want to be an A&K Champion
    Annual Show with Cast Onstage