Creative Therapy for People With Dementia (RCN)

Summary

Creative therapy includes dance, drama, music and movement activities. A one-day training package on using creative therapy in dementia care was commissioned from a dance movement psychotherapist. Creative therapy sessions were implemented over an eight-week period, three times a week minimum. Observational outcomes (creative self-expression, communication, pleasure and enjoyment, and general engagement) were recorded.

The use of creative therapy was evaluated for people with dementia in NHS day treatment and inpatient services. This study found that creative therapy resulted in improvements in creative self-expression, communication, pleasure and enjoyment, and general engagement. Further research is required into the short and long-term benefits of creative therapy for people in NHS day centres and inpatient dementia care.

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Reference

Rylatt, P. (2012). The benefits of creative therapy for people with dementia. Nursing Standard, April 18^th 2012; Vol.26(33): pp.42-47.