Avenues, values, and the muse: An ethnographic study of creative activity to support the wellbeing of residents living with dementia in residential care

Abstract

This paper presents the preliminary ethnographic stage of an ongoing PhD project that aims to explore how ludic, and creative activities can support older residents living with dementia in residential care. Observations of care units, as well as formal and informal interviews with care staff provided an understanding of the daily routines and activity within the environment, identified in-house activities, and gave insights into supporting the wellbeing of residents. Observations of arts based activity sessions, and interviews with the creative practitioners who deliver them, provided insights into how creative activities can be a valuable resource in supporting the wellbeing of residents living with dementia, as well as the limitations associated with this field. The paper presents the context for the research question and outlines the methods that were used in addressing it. A summary of the findings are given followed by a brief discussion, focusing on the value that creative activity has for a dementia care environment which is facing significant challenges. The findings are used to support future research to identify ways in which design can manifest and promote the value of creative activity within the dementia care environment.