Research

The fast growing field of arts and aging is based upon a growing body of research linking the arts and improved health. There is now clear evidence that participatory arts enriches the lives of older adults. Leaders in the arts and aging services fields are working hard to build on this evidence to increase awareness about how participation in the arts benefits older adults.

Arts & Health established a partnership with the University of British Columbia Schools of Nursing, Audiology and Speech Sciences to assess the health and well-being impacts on seniors participating in the project during its first 3 years. The Research Report and Executive Summary based on the data collected shows that a significant number of participants experienced improvement in their health, a reduction in their experience of chronic pain, and an increased sense of community.