From performing arts to visual arts, the creative arts offer us a diverse range of activities to express our emotions, tell our stories, and share our perspectives. And of course, to have some fun too! Painting, photography, pottery, music, and theatre are few examples of how we can tap into our inner artist. After all, “Every child is an artist,” according to Pablo Picasso. However, in the second part of that same quote, Picasso questioned how that child could stay an artist as they grow up (1). Could potential health benefits provide a motivational push for some to continue engaging in the arts? Research points to how music, dance, and visual art can help improve various aspects of health and well-being in certain populations (2-4). Click on the links below to learn more.
1. Music
Active music-making therapies delivered by professionals involve individuals participating in music through activities like singing, clapping, and playing instruments, to name a few. Preliminary research shows that active music-making therapy may result in small but meaningful improvements in the cognitive functioning of older adults with cognitive impairment or mild to moderate dementia. Clear impacts on depression, mood, anxiety, and quality of life haven’t been seen at this time (2).
2. Dance
Dance-based mind-motor activities—such as Tai Chi and non-Tai Chi activities like ballroom/folk dancing—are forms of exercise that involve multiple components. These exercises can include an emphasis on balance, moving to an external or internal rhythm (like music or breathing), following choreography or directions, completing movements in a vertical position, and connecting with others (3;5;6). Research shows that dance-based mind-motor activities, specifically Tai Chi, may reduce the number of people who have a fall and the number of falls in healthy older adults. Additionally, both Tai Chi and non-Tai Chi activities may moderately improve balance and mobility, while non-Tai Chi activities may also enhance lower body strength (3).
3. Visual Art
Visual art therapy involves using various materials and methods to create a piece of artwork with or without the encouragement of peers or therapists (4;7;8). Research shows that supervised, group-based visual art therapy may result in large enhancements in cognitive function for older adults with mild cognitive impairment. It may moderately reduce depressive symptoms for those with normal cognition or dementia, but this effect was not seen for those with mild cognitive impairment. Lastly, it appears that overall, this form of art therapy may somewhat reduce anxiety in older adults; these results are not specific to cognitive status (4).
While more research is needed to further support the findings above and inform the development of programs that provide optimal effectiveness, nurturing creativity through the arts may have the potential to benefit cognitive, mental, and physical health (2-4). Interested in how you can incorporate these artistic activities into a comprehensive prevention or treatment plan? Consult with your healthcare team about your specific health status, needs, and wants.
