The therapeutic use of art as a form of nonpharmacological treatment for those living with a dementia diagnosis

Abstract

The therapeutic use of art has been acknowledged as an effective nonpharmacological intervention for those living with a dementia diagnosis, with a vast array of mental health benefits. However, despite these benefits, nonpharmacological interventions are widely underused in favour of pharmacological treatments for the management of mental health and cognitive difficulties following a diagnosis of dementia in older people’s services. Case studies detailing three artistic interventions that were carried out as part of each service user’s treatment from an older people’s service in North Cumbria are discussed to demonstrate the therapeutic use of art following a dementia diagnosis, and to share the clinical observations and improvements on Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) scores achieved within each intervention. These interventions suggest support for existing literature and aim to encourage other healthcare professionals to use person-centred, nonpharmacological interventions in the management of cognitive and mental health difficulties in later life following a dementia diagnosis.