Jamie F. Mayer

Purpose: The arts (e.g., music and painting) have received considerable theoretical and observational support as a cognitive stimulation technique for persons living with dementia (PLWD). However, particularly for visual arts, limited empirical support exists. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to pilot a free-form arts program for PLWD in the context of a cognitive stimulation paradigm and measure subsequent engagement, communication, cognitive–linguistic function, and quality of life. Method: Three PLWD (one each in mild-to-moderate, moderate, and moderate-to-severe stages) were referred for study participation by a local long-term care facility. A single subject across subjects, ABA reversal design was used to assess intervention effects over a period of 8 weeks, in comparison to an active control condition (cooking activity). Cognitive–linguistic function and quality of life were assessed using standardized measures at baseline and follow-up. Engagement and communication were probed regularly across each study phase. Results: Significant changes were seen in participants' engagement and communication during painting sessions compared to the control activity. A nonsignificant positive trend was noted for self-rated quality of life from baseline to follow-up. Pre–post testing revealed nominal change in cognitive–linguistic functions. Conclusions: An arts program led to significant increases in constructive engagement and communication and a trend toward increased self-rated quality of life for the three PLWD. The fact that these changes were not sustained outside intervention sessions (i.e., pre–post testing) is consistent with the need for a larger paradigm shift in which rehabilitation specialists—including speech-language pathologists—better integrate creative, meaningful activities into the everyday lives of PLWD to maximize ongoing engagement, communication, and quality of life.