The effect of Art therapy on the quality of life and social participation of older adults in Kerman nursing homes

The participation of older adults in group activities is one of the key elements in improving the life quality and general health and reducing old age disability. Therefore, this study was conducted to determine the effect of Art therapy (produced crafts and playing with Lego) on life quality and social participation of older adults in Kerman nursing homes. Method: The current study is a quasi-experimental study with pre and posttests and group control. The population of study was older adults who lived in Kerman nursing homes in 2016. 60 older adults selected based on the inclusion criteria. They were randomly assigned to the control (n=30) and experimental groups (n=30). The experimental groups received group activities؛ produced crafts and playing with Lego for one month, eleven sessions (totaling 20 hours). Statistical analysis conducted by analysis of covariance. After completing group activities, both groups responded to Lipid life quality and Moradieʼs social participation Questionnaires. Results: The findings of the covariance’s analysis indicated that there is a significantly difference in the quality of life and its dimensions (depression and anxiety and life satisfaction), between older adults in pre and post-test (p= 0.001) but, there was no significant difference between the scores of social participation of older adults before and after group activities. (p= 0.067). Conclusion: According to the results of this research, Art therapy, such as the provision of handicraft and play with the logo, have a significant positive effect on the quality of life of older adults. Therefore, it is suggested that authorities in care center consider these group activities as a alternative or complementary therapies to reduce the mental health problems of older adults.