Title : The creative prescription: Measuring the impact of arts-based interventions on mental health, pharmacological reduction and health equity in older populations
Abstract:
Background: As global populations age, the reliance on pharmacological solutions for mental health specifically for stress and sleep disorders has reached critical levels. Often, these clinical approaches overlook the systemic inequities, such as gender and socioeconomic barriers, that impact late-life wellbeing. This presentation explores the MAP (Musical Activo Participativo) program as a specialized clinical tool designed to foster cognitive resilience and emotional health through active creative engagement.
Objective: The primary goal is to demonstrate the efficacy of the MAP methodology in reducing the "pharmacological burden" in older adults. By quantifying the reduction in stress-related medications and sedatives, this research highlights how structured music intervention improves the quality of life for participants in hospitals, day centers, and residential care, while simultaneously alleviating the emotional and physical strain on medical teams and families.
Methods: The study utilizes the MAP program framework, prioritizing active music making over passive consumption. This approach is analyzed through a lens of health equity, ensuring that interventions are adaptable to diverse gender identities and socioeconomic backgrounds. The methodology focuses on measurable outcomes: sleep hygiene, anxiety regulation, and the economic impact of reduced medication reliance.
Results & Impact: Evidence suggests that the MAP program acts as a powerful non-pharmacological intervention that stabilizes mood and promotes restorative rest. By providing a "creative prescription," we can address mental health disparities and offer a scalable model for healthcare systems. This results in a dual benefit: enhanced personal dignity for the aging individual and a more sustainable, cost-effective healthcare strategy.
Conclusion: Integrating active music participation into standard geriatric care moves us beyond symptomatic treatment. The MAP program proves that creativity is not just a leisure activity, but a fundamental pillar for achieving health equity and cognitive wellbeing in late-life.
