The value of the use of participatory arts activities in residential care settings to enhance the well-being and quality of life of older people: A rapid review of the literature

This rapid review of the literature explores the value of using participatory arts activities in residential care settings to enhance the health and well-being of older people. A rapid review of the literature published between 2000 and 2013 was undertaken and focused on participants aged 65 years and over living in residential care settings participating in arts activities such as music, dance, singing and the visual arts. The research methods used in the studies were varied, and a range of outcome measures were used, making overall synthesis of the studies difficult. Despite the methodological limitations of the studies, there is some suggestion that in the short term participating in arts activities improves mood, engagement and memory. There is some evidence that participating in arts-based activities has a role to play in improving the quality of life of older people living in residential care settings.