This Childhood Hobby Is Helping Seniors Focus & Relax
Coloring isn’t just for kids anymore, and it’s not just fun. Across the country, more and more adults are picking up colored pencils, gel pens, and markers to wind down, reduce stress, and sharpen their minds. For seniors, adult coloring books are more than just a nostalgic pastime. They’re a tool for calm, clarity, and creativity.
Whether you’re looking for a screen-free way to relax in the evening or something simple to keep your hands and mind engaged, coloring might be just the thing.
Adult coloring books are thoughtfully designed with detailed patterns and visual themes that encourage quiet focus. Many feature nature scenes, intricate mandalas, or inspirational quotes that provide gentle stimulation for the brain without becoming overwhelming. This makes them ideal for older adults who want to stay mentally sharp while also finding moments of calm.
Research supports the benefits. A 2017 study published in Art Therapy: Journal of the American Art Therapy Association found that even short sessions of coloring helped reduce anxiety and improve concentration in adults. The simple act of filling in patterns with color appears to engage the mind in a focused, meditative way. Seniors also report improvements in fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination over time, especially those managing arthritis or joint stiffness.
For many, the quiet act of coloring creates a sense of mindfulness that rivals meditation. “It gives me something to focus on that isn’t worry,” said Janice B., 74, from Sarasota. “Ten minutes in, I feel calmer without even realizing it.” Leonard R., 69, from Asheville, shared a similar experience: “I started coloring before bed instead of scrolling on my phone. It helps my brain shift gears. I’ve been falling asleep faster ever since.”
There’s also a psychological boost that comes from finishing a coloring page. Even if it’s just one section at a time, the sense of progress can feel satisfying. Some seniors find it to be a joyful shared activity with grandkids, sitting side by side and working on separate pages while chatting about their day.
Coloring may seem like child’s play, but don’t underestimate its power. It’s a soothing, screen-free way to support focus, reduce stress, and ease into rest. It doesn’t require special skills or expensive tools, just a few minutes, a quiet space, and a willingness to slow down.
So the next time your thoughts are racing or the evening feels too long, pick up a coloring book. What begins as a few strokes of color might just become one of the most peaceful parts of your day.
Recommended Adult Coloring Books
- The Calm Coloring Book: Features beautiful images to soothe your cares. Amazon
- Fantastic Cities: A Coloring Book of Amazing Places Real and Imagined: Designed for adults, this book showcases detailed drawings of cityscapes from across the globe. Architectural Digest+1self.com+1
- Creative Haven Series by Dover Publications: Offers a variety of themed books, including Enchanted Fairies, Fabulous Fashions, and Magnificent Mehndi. Faber-Castell USA
- Best Adult Coloring Book (Double Size): Includes 140 pages with 68 designs, featuring mandalas, geometric shapes, and animals. Amazon
About the Author
Written by the ZestYears Editorial Tem
