Arts-based therapy plays an important role in the recovery of patients after a stroke. Through music, movement and visual arts, these therapies support physical recovery, emotional expression and quality of life during inpatient rehabilitation. Arts-based therapy complements traditional rehabilitation by engaging both the body and mind in meaningful, motivating ways.
Arts-based therapy gives people recovering from a stroke an outlet to express themselves through music, dance or visual arts, such as painting. These therapies support a whole-body and mind connection. They also encourage patients to use their affected limbs during therapy.
Benefits of art-based therapy in stroke recovery
Research shows that patients who participate in arts-based therapies often report increased self-esteem from creating artwork and receiving positive feedback. These therapies can also provide relaxation and a healthy distraction, which is especially valuable in inpatient rehabilitation, where patients typically participate in therapy three hours a day, five days a week.
Overall, the benefits of incorporating arts-based therapy into stroke rehabilitation include:
- Promoting whole-body and mind connection
- Boosting self-confidence and helping reduce depression
- Enhancing quality of life
- Providing peer support
- Offering a healthy distraction
- Creating an outlet for self-expression for patients who are non-verbal
What is art-based therapy?
According to the American Art Therapy Association, art therapy enriches lives through artmaking and the creative process. Art-based therapy is not limited to crafts and may also include music and dance.
These therapies can support cognition, emotional expression and self-esteem. They are especially effective for people who have difficulty communicating verbally, a common challenge after a stroke.
Ways to incorporate art-based therapy into occupational therapy practice
There are many ways to incorporate art-based therapy into an occupational therapy practice. Activities may include visual arts, dance and music. They can be done individually or in a group setting.
While there are professional art therapy degrees and certifications, there are some simple and effective ways all occupational therapists can incorporate creative activities into treatment sessions.
Dance and music interventions
Recent studies show that music-based rhythmic auditory stimulation may improve balance and motor function.
Examples include:
- Drumming group: Patients drum along to a steady beat using unilateral and/or bilateral movements. Drumsticks or foam tubing can be used on Bosu balls or tabletops. Activities can be graded by changing positions from sitting to standing, adding weight-bearing through the affected upper extremity or removing back support. Drumming is especially beneficial when performed above 100 beats per minute, as cardiovascular demands increase.
- Tai Chi or yoga: These activities combine gentle movement, rhythmic breathing and calming music to support balance, coordination and relaxation. Sessions can also be easily graded from seated to standing.
Visual arts activities
Painting parties are an effective way to incorporate art-based therapy into rehabilitation programs. Invite former stroke patients to paint alongside current patients during a group "painting party."
Provide each participant with a canvas, easel, paint, brushes, palette, apron and relaxation tools such as a sound machine. You can also share educational resources such as Encompass Health and the American Stroke Association's Life After Stroke Guide.
During the painting party, participants can connect with peers and staff members. At the end of the session, display the paintings so participants and their families can view the artwork and celebrate progress.
