Painting a Positive Mood: Open Studio Art with Older Adults

摘要

The current research study hypothesized that painting in an open studio environment can positively increase the current mood state of adults 65 and older. A total of eighteen participants completed the study, fifteen women and three men. Quantitative data in this research was collected by utilizing the Ottawa Mood Scale, a pre and post Likert Scale, measuring the current mood state of each individual. Qualitative data was collected from the demographic questionnaire, and a one word response given by each participant that correlated with the answers provided on the Likert Scale. The words were depicted using an online program called Wordle. Results from this study indicate that painting in an open studio could positively increase the current mood state of an older adult and also improve communication. The research findings provide support that art therapy can increase quality of life and enhance successful aging.