One particular pilot study conducted by Kinney and Rentz (2005) examined several domains of wellbeing in individuals participating in a structured painting activity vs. another type of structured activity.
Visual Art Therapy for Individuals with Dementia: Peers Matter!
Using nonverbal treatment approaches when working with individuals with dementia has become increasingly popular as an alternative to traditional talk therapy. Although these methods have become more popular, research is limited. The articles reviewed below suggest that art therapy is beneficial for individuals with dementia, but may be limited to a group setting.
While the efficacy of a treatment modality tends to be person-specific, preliminary research examining the implementation of art programs in individuals with dementia suggests that it may be more helpful than other structured activities in improving an individual’s wellbeing. One particular pilot study conducted by Kinney and Rentz (2005) examined several domains of wellbeing in individuals participating in a structured painting activity vs. another type of structured activity. Study results showed that during the painting activity, individuals reported more interest, better focused attention, increased pleasure and self esteem, as well as increased feelings of normalcy compared to when they participated in a different structured activity.
When participating in art therapy, there are several factors that are thought to be especially important in promoting aspects of wellbeing as described above. It is important to note that virtually all research examines the effects of art therapy in a group setting, which seems to be the source of a majority of reported benefits (Hazzan, et. al 2016). Participants were more engaged and attentive in an art therapy group since they were surrounded by peers involved in the same activity. Individuals also felt more comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings while engaged in the art activity - this was hypothesized to be due to reduced conversational pressure and allowed for more relaxed chatting while simultaneously working on another activity. There was also the suggestion that participants felt that they were valued and appreciated while participating in art activities, particularly when they were praised for their efforts and accomplishments. Finally, participation in art activities seemed to help individuals become more engaged with the group over time - both from the beginning to the end of a session as well as from session to session.
Most of the research completed on visual art in the elderly population focuses on art as a group activity, and it seems most of the benefits of the art comes from being in a group setting while working on an art project. While the benefits of visual art in individual psychotherapy remain unclear, incorporating art into group sessions may be a way to unite a group toward a common goal, encourage casual conversation, and boost self efficacy through the observation of patient efforts.
Art and Artists from a Recent Memories in the Making© Program
References:
Hazzan, A. A., Humphrey, J., Kilgour-Walsh, L., Moros, K. L., Murray, C., Stanners, S., ... & Papaioannou, A. (2016). Impact of the ‘Artful Moments’ intervention on persons with dementia and their care partners: a pilot study. Canadian Geriatrics Journal, 19(2), 1.
Kinney, J. M., & Rentz, C. A. (2005). Observed well-being among individuals with dementia: Memories in the Making©, an art program, versus other structured activity. American Journal of Alzheimer's Disease & Other Dementias®, 20(4), 220-227.
