RESEARCH

Comparative Efficacy of Various Art Therapies for Patients with Dementia: A Network Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

This study suggests that calligraphy therapy may be the most effective for improving cognitive function and quality of life in dementia patients, while horticultural therapy might be best for decreasing agitation. Healthcare professionals should consider these art therapies as part of routine care for dementia patients, though more research is needed to validate these findings.

Program Types: Therapeutic

Population Groups: Dementia/Traumatic & Acquired Brain Injuries

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Enhanced Emotional Well-being, Improved Stress Management

Type of Activity: Outdoor Gardening

Evidence Type: Peer-Reviewed Studies, Meta-Analyses/Systematic Reviews

Measurement and Evaluation: Program Effectiveness

Access: Free

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Summary

This study looked at different types of art therapies to see which ones work best for people with dementia. Dementia is a serious health problem that affects memory and thinking skills. Art therapies, like music, painting, or gardening, are often used to help people with dementia. The researchers combined the results of 39 studies with nearly 3,000 participants to compare the effects of different art therapies on things like memory, daily living skills, mood, anxiety, agitation, and quality of life. They found that calligraphy (artistic handwriting) might be the best for improving memory and quality of life, while horticultural therapy (gardening) might be the best for reducing agitation.

The study suggests that art therapies can be helpful for people with dementia, but some might be better than others depending on the specific symptoms. Calligraphy could improve memory and overall well-being, while gardening could reduce agitation. The researchers recommend that healthcare professionals consider using these art therapies to help people with dementia. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings and figure out exactly how these therapies work.

Link

Liu, Q., Wang, F., Tan, L. et al. (2023). Comparative efficacy of various art therapies for patients with dementia: A network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Front Psychiatry., 14,1072066

Notes/Suggestions

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