Exploring the potential of creative museum-led activities to support stroke In-patient rehabilitation and wellbeing: A pilot mixed-methods study

• Published in: Arts & health Vol. 15; no. 2; pp. 135 - 152
• Main Authors: Morse, Nuala, Thomson, L.J., Elsden, E., Rogers, H., Chatterjee, H.J.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England Taylor & Francis 01-06-2023; Taylor & Francis Ltd
• Subjects: Humans; Mixed methods research; Museum objects; Museums; occupational therapy; Pilot Projects; Rehabilitation; Retrospective Studies; Self esteem; Social interaction; Stroke; Stroke Rehabilitation - methods; wellbeing; rehabilitation; Museum objects; stroke; wellbeing; occupational therapy
• ISSN: 1753-3015; 1753-3023
• DOI: 10.1080/17533015.2022.2032224

This paper proposes a framework for studying the potential of museum-led interventions for supporting stroke rehabilitation goals.
The intervention was based on Kirvevold et al.'s model for interventions for post-stroke wellbeing. Mixed-methods data wqas collected to review benefits in a pilot study, including retrospective video observations for six sessions with four patients; interviews with patients, carers and facilitators; pre-post patient assessments; and facilitator diaries.
Systematic analysis of videos showed high levels of concentration and engagement with museum objects, low levels of social interaction, and positive or neutral mood throughout. Thematic qualitative analysis suggested patients felt engaged in meaningful activities, which lifted negative mood, provided positive distraction from the ward, and increased self-esteem, including belief in patient abilities.
Further research is needed to fully establish the potential of museum-led interventions for stroke rehabilitation.