An exploration of engagement in community based creative activities as an occupation for older adults
Edwards, Luned and Owen-Booth, Bethan (2021) An exploration of engagement in community based creative activities as an occupation for older adults. Irish Journal of Occupational Therapy (IJOT). ISSN 2398-8819
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Abstract
Purpose – The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of older adults (aged 60 and over) participating in community-based creative arts. With an ever increasing ageing population, understanding the benefits of leisure occupations such as community creative arts will be vital for Occupational Therapists in facilitating participation and active engagement. Design/methodology/approach – An empirical qualitative research design with an interpretive phenomenological approach was undertaken. A purposive sampling method enlisted four older adult volunteers whose experiences of creative arts were explored through semi-structured interviews. Interview data were analysed thematically. Findings – Participants identified many benefits of engaging in community creative arts. Four main themes were identified, namely, “personal benefits”, “choice” in their occupation, “encouragement” to and from others, with the environment facilitating “socialising”. These resulted in improved occupational performance and positive well-being outcomes. Originality/value – The study complements national policy and extends evidence-based practice on the potential well-being benefits on older adults. In support of the preventative agenda, occupational therapists may apply these findings to increase social prescribing within practice.
| Item Type: | Article |
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| Keywords: | Community, Occupational therapy, Older adult, Social prescribing, Creative arts |
| Divisions: | Social and Life Sciences |
| Depositing User: | Hayley Dennis |
| Date Deposited: | 14 Jun 2021 12:16 |
| Last Modified: | 14 Jun 2021 12:16 |
| URI: | https://glyndwr.repository.guildhe.ac.uk/id/eprint/17785 |
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