Summer in the Coachella Valley presents unique wellness challenges beyond high temperatures. As the frequency of outdoor activities declines, many full-time residents—particularly older adults, caregivers and individuals living alone—experience increased isolation due to fewer opportunities for meaningful social connection.

Public health organizations increasingly recognize social isolation and loneliness as significant health concerns. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, social isolation has been associated with higher risks of cognitive decline, depression, anxiety, heart disease and premature mortality.¹ Similarly, the World Health Organization has identified loneliness as an emerging global public health issue affecting both mental and physical well-being.²

In response to these concerns, health care professionals and community organizations continue to explore accessible ways to support emotional wellness and social engagement. One approach receiving growing attention is participation in community-based arts programs.

Research suggests that creative activities promoting social engagement may provide measurable psychological and social benefits. A 2024 study published in Public Health found that continued participation in the arts among older adults helped reduce feelings of loneliness while improving social connection and emotional well-being.³ Another related study published in Social Science & Medicine reported that ongoing arts program engagement was associated with lower levels of social disconnection and loneliness among aging populations.⁴

Unlike many solitary activities, group art classes encourage conversation, collaboration and shared experiences in a relaxed and compassionate environment. While engaging in artistic exploration, participants often develop friendships and support networks that extend well beyond the structured class activities. Researchers also note that artistic activities can promote presence, reduce stress, and improve self-esteem and cognitive stimulation.⁵

These benefits may be especially meaningful in our desert communities during the summer season. Indoor arts programming offers residents a cool, safe and inspiring space to remain socially active while participating in purposeful creative activities—and no previous experience is required.

Local nonprofit arts organizations throughout the Coachella Valley have long recognized the correlation between creativity, community engagement and emotional wellness. Old Town Artisan Studios in La Quinta offers specialized programming and cost-saving benefits for veterans, individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease, and caregivers seeking supportive, social activities.

As conversations focused on preventive health and emotional wellness continue to gain popularity, community art classes may offer benefits far beyond mere recreation. Increasingly, they are being recognized as supportive wellness resources that can help build resilience, reduce isolation and strengthen overall well-being.

Peggy Schulz is the director of development at Old Town Artisan Studios in La Quinta. For more information on programs offered, visit www.oldtownartisanstudios.org.

References: 1) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Health Effects of Social Isolation and Loneliness.” CDC.gov; 2) World Health Organization. “Social Isolation and Loneliness.” WHO.int.; 3) Public Health. “Evaluation of an Art-Based Museum Intervention in Reducing Loneliness Among Older Adults,” 2024; 4) Social Science & Medicine. “Arts and Cultural Engagement and Subsequent Social Deficits Among Older Adults,” 2024; 5) Aydın M, Kutlu FY. “The Effect of Group Art Therapy on Loneliness and Hopelessness Levels of Older Adults Living Alone.” Perspectives in Psychiatric Care, 2021.

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