Self-reported cognitive and emotional benefits of fractal drawing in older adults

In an increasingly ageing society, we frequently encounter challenges related to dementia and cognitive decline, where even minor cognitive changes in older adults can significantly impact their quality of life. Research indicates that engagement in various leisure activities can support cognitive development in the elderly. We aimed to explore whether this could be achieved through artistic activities – specifically, fractal drawing. This technique is based on the principles of free-line drawing and colouring the resulting fields, requiring a certain degree of concentration, precision, imagination, perseverance, memory, fine motor skills, and more. Our objective was to examine whether prolonged participation in the leisure activity of fractal drawing may be related to perceived changes in specific cognitive functions in older adults. As part of the European Erasmus+ project, we organised eight groups of elderly participants (from Slovenia and Croatia) who engaged in fractal drawing activities for two to three months. A total of 117 participants, aged between 60 and 94 years, assessed their emotional functioning, cognitive skills, attention, and concentration through a questionnaire both before and after completing the programme. A paired t-test analysis showed higher scores across most of the areas examined. Our findings suggest that participation in fractal drawing workshops was associated with higher self-reported emotional well-being and attentional focus among older adults. The findings reflect preliminary, self-reported changes that indicate the potential benefits of this art-based activity