Exploring the Impact of Digital Art Therapy on People with Dementia: A Framework and Research-Based Discussion

Dementia affects a large number of people globally, and the number is expected to rise further in the future. This study concentrates on the potential of digital art therapy as a non-pharmacological approach to cater to the growing demand for constructing interactive elements and procedures for people with dementia (PWD). The research develops a framework for identifying the emotional and physical demands of PWD, forming an overview for a deeper understanding of their necessities. The benefits of art therapy for PWD are explored, drawing upon earlier research, and encompass improved emotional state, reduced restlessness, and increased interpersonal engagement. The study underscores the importance of utilizing digital art therapy in an inventive manner as an essential component of the curative journey, underscoring its capacity to enhance PWD’s perception of safety, social engagement, cognitive ability, and physical health. The research also proposes a psychophysiological experiment to gauge the effects of traditional art therapy versus digital art therapy on the emotional stimulation of PWD. The final section of the paper builds an argument for incorporating creative digital art therapy into the standard of care provided to PWD, emphasizing the ways it can improve their quality of life and foster a society that is more understanding and sympathetic.