Arts for the Aging

Arts for the Aging Dazzling beauty and therapeutic power through lifelong arts engagement Programs for independent older adults take place in community centers.

AFTA's service delivery focuses on seniors throughout the DC metro area who are vulnerable and frail, in adult day health care centers, nursing homes and assisted living settings. Research shows that regular engagement in participatory arts programs improves mental and physical health, longevity, and the overall quality of life in seniors.

Join our team! Visit https://artsfortheaging.org/who-we-are/  to learn more about this full-time employment opportunity ...
08/31/2026

Join our team!

Visit https://artsfortheaging.org/who-we-are/ to learn more about this full-time employment opportunity to shape our program department. Creative problem-solvers and innovative thinkers are encouraged to apply.

Our older adult participants at Residences on the Lane definitely Shake-d, Rattle-d, and Roll-ed during an energetic, up...
08/27/2026

Our older adult participants at Residences on the Lane definitely Shake-d, Rattle-d, and Roll-ed during an energetic, upbeat workshop led by teaching artist Wall Matthews. 🥁🪘🪕

With a mix of blues, traditional, and popular music performed on guitar and drums, Wall had participants up on their feet dancing in no time. As soon as Wall led the participants with some rhythmic drumbeats, they joined in by clapping or playing the percussion instruments Wall passed out from sticks and drums to tambourines and even an empty juice carton.

One participant loved the class so much that she kept asking Wall when he would return, saying that the workshop was such a great exercise.

Everyone had the chance to express themselves through music, movement, and creativity.

We're honored to share Art in Our Hearts, a collaborative poem co-created by Arts for the Aging Teaching Artist Casey Ca...
08/25/2026

We're honored to share Art in Our Hearts, a collaborative poem co-created by Arts for the Aging Teaching Artist Casey Catherine Moore and older adult participants.

Throughout the poem, participants reflect on the ways art helps us connect, communicate, find joy, and support one another. Their words remind us that creativity allows for self-expression and community building.

At Arts for the Aging, we witness these moments every day. Through shared creative experiences, older adults find opportunities to tell their stories, engage their imaginations, and connect with others in meaningful ways.

We hope you enjoy reading this poem, and we thank those who contributed their voices to this beautiful collaborative work. 💛

What does it mean to age well?  Psychiatrist Dr. Samantha Boardman shares how living longer isn't the same as feeling al...
08/20/2026

What does it mean to age well?

Psychiatrist Dr. Samantha Boardman shares how living longer isn't the same as feeling alive. Drawing on emerging research, she highlights how arts and cultural engagement can contribute to healthy aging by fostering connection, purpose, and overall well-being.

This message deeply resonates with Arts for the Aging's mission. Every day, we see how our programs help older adults connect with others, open a space for self-expression and exploration, and engage in the arts.

Learn more about why aging well is about adding life to our years, not just years to our lives here: https://drsamanthaboardman.substack.com/p/living-longer-isnt-the-same-as-feeling?r=4rls25&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=email&triedRedirect=true

At Arts for the Aging, we believe that creative expression belongs to everyone. Our participant demographics reflect the...
08/18/2026

At Arts for the Aging, we believe that creative expression belongs to everyone.

Our participant demographics reflect the diverse communities we are honored to serve throughout greater DC. Through our flagship arts engagement workshops, we strive to create welcoming spaces where older adults of all backgrounds can connect and create.

Thank you to our participants for bringing your unique stories and creativity to our programs!

The Empower Project is officially underway!  Following the selection of this year's trios, we gathered our teaching arti...
08/13/2026

The Empower Project is officially underway!

Following the selection of this year's trios, we gathered our teaching artists, artists in residence, and teen fellows for an orientation filled with connection and conversation.

Participants had the opportunity to begin building relationships that will serve as the foundation for their work together. As they prepare to collaborate to deliver Arts for the Aging's flagship arts engagement workshops, they demonstrate the power of meaningful connection across generations.

We are excited to see these creative partnerships grow and look forward to the impact they will have in communities!

We want to take a moment to revisit these beautiful bird masterpieces drawn by our very own Arts for the Aging participa...
08/11/2026

We want to take a moment to revisit these beautiful bird masterpieces drawn by our very own Arts for the Aging participants. 🐦🎨

At Arts for the Aging, we believe in reversing the negative paradigm around what aging looks like. Older adults are not defined by limitations. They are artists, storytellers, creators, and lifelong learners with unique perspectives and talents to share.

These vibrant artworks are a reminder of what can flourish when older adults are given opportunities to engage in the arts. Through creative expression, participants continue to explore new skills and build confidence to express themselves freely.

Arts for the Aging loves Richmond!  Recently, the Arts for the Aging team stepped away from our desks for a day of conne...
08/06/2026

Arts for the Aging loves Richmond!

Recently, the Arts for the Aging team stepped away from our desks for a day of connection, creativity, and inspiration in Richmond, VA.

The team explored the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, shared a delicious lunch at Lolita's, spent the afternoon strolling through Carytown, and ended the day at Beauvine Burger Concept for dinner. The visit also gave team members an opportunity to connect in person, including spending time with colleagues who work remotely. 🎨🌮🍔✨

This quick day trip allowed us to experience the collective power of the arts in bringing people together. Taking time to connect, reflect, and be inspired by all the beautiful art in Richmond was much needed. We are grateful for the chance to learn, explore, and grow together.

Behind Arts for the Aging is a dedicated group of board members who believe in our mission to bring meaningful arts enga...
08/04/2026

Behind Arts for the Aging is a dedicated group of board members who believe in our mission to bring meaningful arts engagement opportunities to older adults and their caregivers.

Today, we wanted to take a moment to introduce and thank them for their generosity and commitment in helping us flip the negative paradigm around aging.

Our board members contribute a wide range of experience across nonprofit leadership, healthcare, business, finance, law, philanthropy, and community engagement. Together, they help advance our vision of a world where participatory arts programs are accessible to all older adults and caregivers.

What does beauty mean to you? 🌺 Participants at Arlington Adult Day Program explored this question as teaching artists L...
07/28/2026

What does beauty mean to you? 🌺

Participants at Arlington Adult Day Program explored this question as teaching artists Lauren Mazow Boyle and Deborah helped them brainstorm through poetry, movement, music, and conversation. Together, participants reflected on the people, experiences, and simple pleasures that bring meaning to their lives.

Through collaboration and storytelling, participants’ ideas blossomed into this poem: Toss in Beauty. Moments like these reflect the power of collaborative arts experiences. By creating together, we not only share different perspectives, but also strengthen our connections with one another.

Address

9841 Washingtonian Boulevard #200/6
Gaithersburg, MD
20878

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

Telephone

+13012550103

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