The impact of creative engagement in museum activities on the well‐being of people living with dementia, their carers, and family members: The arts programming “Susitikime muziejuje” case in Lithuania

Abstract

Background Caring for people living with dementia presents profound challenges to families and society, and the growing global burden is vastly underestimated. WHO (2019) recommends to integrate the arts in the social care and health sectors to support health and well‐being throughout the life course and across the continuum of care. In museum programming “Susitikime muziejuje we are tackling this challenge by developing cross‐sectorial partnerships that create access to the art for people living with dementia, their carers and family members. Method The programme “Susitikime muziejuje” includes training for museum staff, museum tours, workshops in residential care settings and the evaluation of the programme’s impact on the well‐being of people living with dementia, their carers and family members. Evaluation carried out in 2019 included observation of the museum activity sessions and focus group interviews with the participants after the sessions. The qualitative data was analysed using the thematic analysis. Result The project “Susitikime muziejuje“ in Lithuanian Art museums provides opportunity for people living with dementia, their carers and family members to engage in art activities. The programme created a platform to experience the art in a safe, failure free and friendly environment; stimulated learning and self – expression in equal participation; increased self‐esteem; helped to relax; enhanced participants’ mood while experiencing a meaningful and joyful here and now moment; increased a sense of community and improved communication. Participants experienced a range of positive emotions, learned new things about each other with no negative experiences of the participation in the programme were stated. Conclusion Museum arts programme “Susitikime muziejuje” had a positive impact on the well‐being of people living with dementia and their carers. The study contributes to the research in dementia care and supports the evidence the cultural sector can play an active role in cross‐sectorial partnerships development and supporting person‐centered approach in dementia care.