How the Artfully Aging Online Program Is a Perfect Fit for Senior Living Communities

With its inception in 2009, Artfully Aging was founded squarely in the senior living space. In fact, until the pandemic, that was almost exclusively who we served—locally and in person only. When COVID hit, we had a problem to solve: How do we continue serving senior living communities without physically going into them?

We set out to provide the same professional art program for seniors—one we already had a proven track record with (residents love our projects)—and to support staff who would now need to lead the groups. The solution: provide access to online staff training with ready‐to‐paint watercolor projects. Designed to be accessible to all, requiring no art experience, and available online everywhere. Problem solved. 

Along with the solution, a new opportunity emerged: a universal art program for seniors of all skill levels and in all senior settings everywhere.

A Perfect Fit for Senior Living Communities

COVID or no COVID, many benefits of the online offering became apparent throughout the early 2020s. These benefits add value to the resident experience, the Life Enrichment department, and the community at large. As discussed in the training videos, Artfully Aging projects can be tailored to fit every level of care.

The Artfully Aging online program was designed to provide any Life Enrichment department with a professional art program that can be delivered autonomously—without the physical presence of a professional vendor.

How the Program Works
It’s simple. Ready‐to‐paint watercolor projects that include a graphite guide are ordered from the website menu and shipped to the community. Once the order is placed, easy‐to‐follow “How‐to” videos become accessible through a website login. Watercolor supplies are also available through the website.

The Benefits
• Easy, flexible scheduling — no coordinating with an outside vendor
• Cost‐effective — a fraction of professional vendor fees
• Easy to order — all prices are listed on the website
• “How‐to” videos allow the entire staff to lead art sessions
• All projects are appropriate for every level of care
• Large selection of project themes
• No previous art experience required

Whether you're a novice or an experienced artist, the “How‐to” videos provide all the training and information necessary to successfully lead the watercolor sessions.

About the “How‐to” Videos
• Intended for staff learning to lead watercolor sessions
• Provide basic watercolor tips and techniques
• Offer reminiscing ideas related to each project
• Include tips for encouraging participation
• Include guidance for working with different levels of care
• Offer ideas to heighten a senior’s sense of accomplishment

If you're ready to experience the many ways Artfully Aging can add value to your Life Enrichment Program, visit our project menu and launch your new professional in‐house art program today.