Application of painting therapy in interventions for negative emotions among older adults with cognitive impairment: a scoping review.

OBJECTIVE

To map and synthesize the characteristics, delivery dosage, outcome measures, and reported outcome findings of painting therapy interventions for negative emotions among older adults with cognitive impairment.

METHODS

Guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) framework, 11 databases were searched from inception to October 2, 2025. Eleven original interventional studies, including randomized controlled and quasi-experimental studies, were included.

RESULTS

For descriptive synthesis, the authors developed a classification based on delivery modality and the extent of integration with other components, grouping interventions as traditional, hybrid, or technology-integrated. Common components included theme-guided creation, free expression, art appreciation combined with creation, and structured techniques. Intervention duration, frequency, and session length varied. The included studies reported possible reductions in depressive and anxiety symptoms and improvements in selected cognitive and quality-of-life outcomes; however, the findings, intervention protocols, and outcome measures were heterogeneous.

CONCLUSIONS

The mapped evidence describes diverse painting therapy approaches but does not establish efficacy or an optimal dosage. These findings may inform future development and testing of structured, person-centered protocols and more consistent outcome measures in geriatric nursing.