The Effect of Art Training on Dementia

Abstract

The present study explores the effect of visual art training on people with dementia (PWD), utilizing a randomized control trial (RCT) design, with a structured usual activity waitlist control group, in order to investigate the effects of an eight-week visual art training program on PWDs cognition, mood, and behaviour. Cognition was assessed with: The Backward Digit Span, measuring verbal working memory; the Body Part Pointing Test, measuring visuospatial working memory; and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), measuring overall cognitive function. Mood and behaviour were qualitatively assessed based on volunteer-completed observational reports. The results of the study indicate that while cognition is not significantly affected by an eight-week art training program, mood and behaviour are positively impacted.