The benefits of community-based participatory arts activities for people living with dementia: a thematic scoping review. Issue 3 (2nd September 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ward, Meghánn Catherine; Milligan, Christine; Rose, Emma; Elliott, Mary; Wainwright, Bethany Rebecca
• Is Part Of: Arts & health. Volume 13:Issue 3(2021)
• Page Start: 213
• Page End: 239
• Publication Date: 2021-09-02
• Subjects: Dementia -- participatory arts -- creativity -- health and wellbeing -- person-centred -- in the moment; Arts -- Therapeutic use -- Periodicals; Medical care -- Periodicals; Public health -- Periodicals; 615.8515
• DOI: 10.1080/17533015.2020.1781217
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1753-3015

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Background: The drive towards living well with dementia has resulted in a growing recognition of the value of community-based participatory arts activities. This review aimed to explore their overall impact and holistic benefits for people with early to moderate stages of dementia. Methods: Using a scoping review methodology and thematic analysis, this review explored relevant literature published between 2008 and 2019. Results: 26 published papers were identified, comprising visual arts, literary arts, comedy, music and dance. The key themes included person-centred, in-the-moment approaches; participation and communication; attention and cognition; social cohesion and relationships; and the role of space, place and objects. Conclusions: There is strong evidence in support of using participatory arts for dementia, regardless of art form. In-the-moment and person-centred approaches were deemed impactful. Further research is needed to explore the importance of setting, material culture and the methodological or theoretical perspectives in participatory arts and dementia research.