Enhancing quality of life for older adults through online creative arts workshops
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Enhancing quality of life for older adults through online creative arts workshops

Introduction: In the healthcare field, online systems are gaining growing attention. Remote interventions using creative activities via online platforms can expand occupational therapy applications.

Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of online creative arts workshops in enhancing the quality of life (QOL) for older individuals and highlights their implementation process.

Methods: A total of 11 older individuals participated in monthly online creative arts workshops (21 sessions) involving activities such as kaleidoscope making and herbarium creation. Participants had an average age of 78.2 years, with 4 females and 7 males. QOL was assessed using the WHOQOL-26 at pre-intervention, midterm, and final stages. The study was conducted from January 2021 to November 2022. Statistical analysis included the Friedman test to identify significant differences over time, followed by multiple comparisons to pinpoint specific changes. Additionally, practical implementation, including preparation and technical aspects, was documented.

Results: The Friedman test revealed significant differences in the WHOQOL-26 total and psychological domain scores between assessments. Multiple comparisons showed that the total score was significantly higher in the final assessment compared to both the pre-intervention and midterm stages. Similarly, the psychological domain score significantly improved in the final assessment compared to the pre-intervention and midterm stages. Practical details regarding environmental setup and technical assistance were documented for implementation in this study.

Conclusions: This study highlighted the potential benefits of remote interventions in occupational therapy and provided practical guidelines for implementing online creative activities for older individuals.