Creative support: Enhancing well-being in mild and moderate cognitive impairment through museum interventions

BackgroundThe global incidence of dementia is increasing, establishing it as a significant cause of disability and diminished quality of life. The World Health Organization underscores the necessity of enhancing the well-being of individuals with dementia and their caregivers. Research has indicated that art-based interventions can improve cognitive functions and overall quality of life. This pilot study aimed to evaluate the impact of a museum-based intervention program on the well-being (quality of life, depression, and mood) of individuals with mild-to-moderate cognitive impairment (MCI-moderate), which may indicate early to moderate stages of dementia that was not formally diagnosed.MethodsWe recruited 29 participants with MCI-moderate (median MoCA score: 22). The intervention group consisted of 16 individuals (11 females, 5 males; mean age 83.5 years) who attended sessions at an art museum in Israel every once a week from March to April 2023. Thirteen age-matched individuals formed the control group, which did not participate in the museum program. Measures of well-being were assessed before and after the intervention, along with collecting participants' feedback. Well-being changes within and between-groups were analyzed using mixed model analysis of variance. Effect sizes were also calculated.ResultsThe intervention group showed significant improvements in quality of life with large effect sizes in all domains, and a significant reduction in depression symptoms; the control group experienced non-significant changes. Additionally, mood significantly improved following museum activities. Most participants positively reviewed the program, with a significant majority reporting enhanced mood (81.2%) and a strong intention to recommend it (93.7%); 62.5% expressed a desire for future participation.ConclusionsOur findings suggest that art interventions, such as museum programs, can significantly boost well-being in people with MCI-moderate, suggesting further exploration of the specific elements of such programs and their long-lasting effects.