Creatively Healthy: Art in a Care Home Setting in Scotland

Excerpt

The benefit of art and creativity in improving health and well-being across all age groups is being increasingly recognized. This study reports on the logistics and evaluation of an outdoor art project within a residential care home in Scotland that aimed to involve residents, their families, and staff in a creative experience to benefit their well-being. Initial designs were developed by a professional artist with the final design being chosen by residents and titled the “Tree of Many Colours.” The design encompassed 57 individual clay tiles; the artist led the creative process over a period of a month. Project evaluation was undertaken using a combination of qualitative and video-based observational research (VOR) through questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, and video capture. The evaluation highlighted five key themes and demonstrated the main benefits derived by residents: learning new skills; self-belief; surprise at their own creative ability; excitement and fun. As a result of the project, staff were more confident and eager to use creative activities. The project has provided a focal piece of art for the home and engendered intergenerational community spirit, bringing staff, residents, and their families together. The model can be replicated and has the potential to be adopted in other settings.