Date of Award

Spring 5-2012

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

EVMS School of Health Professions

Program/Concentration

Art Therapy

Committee Director

Sarah Deaver

Committee Member

Johnathan McIntyre

Abstract

This case report describes my exploration of quality of life by implementing art therapy techniques for life review with an elderly individual. The participant was a 72 year old Caucasian female who, at the time of this investigation, resided in a long term care facility. Together, the participant and I created an altered book incorporating phototherapy techniques in order to enhance the life review process. After seven sessions of art making, the participant answered questions in a semi-structured interview in which I asked about her experience in art therapy and about her quality of life. The results of the interview revealed that health, socialization, spirituality, and activities were most valuable to her in life. The use of photographs and life review allowed her to recall memories and reminisce. The art-making provided her with a sense of accomplishment and well-being. This investigation provided more qualitative information regarding art therapy and quality of life in older adults. These findings pave the way for future studies on art therapy and how it can be applied in treatment with older adults to improve their quality of life.

Rights

In Copyright. URI: http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/ This Item is protected by copyright and/or related rights. You are free to use this Item in any way that is permitted by the copyright and related rights legislation that applies to your use. For other uses you need to obtain permission from the rights-holder(s).

DOI

10.25777/keap-5b12

Download

Included in

Art Therapy Commons

Share

COinS