How Cinema Therapy Benefits Seniors



Catharsis & Emotional Processing

Sometimes, it’s easier to deal with one’s emotions at a distance. Cinema therapy – or even simply watching films and thinking about them – allows individuals to connect with characters and storylines, leading to deeper emotional engagement and processing of difficult feelings. In fact, the ancient Greeks used the theater as a primary method of catharsis, or emotional release. Movie-watching can also be a healthy way for seniors to deal with grief and loss. 

Self-Reflection and Nostalgia

Watching films can help people understand their own values, beliefs, and experiences in new ways. Studies have shown that watching movies can also help people trigger memories and personal stories that may have been repressed. This allows them to connect with their pasts and can renew their sense of purpose. Seniors can also enjoy a pleasant sense of nostalgia, especially if they’re watching beloved films from their younger days.

Stress and Anxiety Reduction

There’s a reason many of us put on a movie to help lift us up after a tough day. According to Wellpower, the escapism and emotional release offered by films can help alleviate stress and anxiety. Furthermore, a study published in Activities, Adaptation & Aging found that watching comedies can also assist with pain management in seniors. 

Improved Social Skills & Bonding

By watching and talking about films, individuals can learn about different perspectives, build empathy, and improve communication skills. This can especially be beneficial to lonely seniors in need of friendship and companionship. Having shared experiences and storylines can help people feel less alone and more connected to others. It creates an opportunity for conversation, looking back, and interacting with other people. That’s why movie nights here at Heathwood Assisted Living are often a communal event, giving our seniors a chance to bond over beloved films of the past and present and form strong friendships.

Alleviating Dementia Symptoms

Scientists are currently studying whether watching films can help reduce the symptoms of dementia. Music therapy has already been shown to be beneficial for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease and similar disorders, so movies are the next logical art form to study. While research is still ongoing, experts currently recommend showing seniors familiar films, or ones with shorter and simpler plots, as they tend to maintain engagement and reduce anxiety more effectively. 

Assisted Living & Memory Care 

Residents of Heathwood Assisted Living enjoy movie nights in our theater, which comes complete with theater-style seating and an old-fashioned popcorn maker. They can also reap all the benefits we’ve just spelled out that come from watching, enjoying, and discussing movies with peers. Here, we place the well-being of our residents above all else, providing top-notch medical services along with a range of amenities to enjoy. Living here truly feels like home! Our caring and trained staff will take care of all the daily chores, so residents can focus on things they enjoy and develop new relationships and friendships with others. 

Heathwood Assisted Living has two Western New York locations: Williamsville and Penfield. If you’d like to learn more about us, we invite you to schedule a tour. We’ll be sure to show you the movie theater!