Group art-based programs may reduce depressive symptoms in older adults  

Azhdarloo M, Ataei R, Alamdarloo SMM, et al. Effectiveness of group-based art interventions for late-life depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials BMC Medicine. 2026; 24: 188.

Review question

Do group-based art programs reduce depressive symptoms in older adults compared to usual care, other active non-art-based activities, or being placed on a waiting list for a group art-based program?

Background

Depression reduces the ability to perform activities of daily living and quality of life. Globally, depression impacts more than 13% of older adults. Medication and psychological therapies are two standard treatment approaches for depression in later-life, but barriers such as medication side effects or stopping treatment early, can impact how well they work. As a result, alternative and complementary strategies, such as art-based programs, are being studied as well. Previous research shows that group art-based programs can improve mental health in older adults, but more high-quality research is needed to lend further support to this finding. 

How the review was done

This is a systematic review and meta-analysis of 41 randomized controlled trails. These studies were published between 2007 and 2025 and included a total of 3,791 participants.   

Key features of the studies:

• Participants were older adults ranging from 60-84 years old and experiencing depressive symptoms rather than a clinical diagnosis of depression.  
• Participants engaged in group art-based programs that had them either actively creating or observing/experiencing one or more of the following art forms: music, dance, visual arts, drama, creative writing, and storytelling. 
• Group-based art programs varied in the number if sessions (3 - 80 sessions), session length (30 - 120 minutes), program duration (4 - 64 weeks), and location of delivery (community, care home, hospital).
• Researchers measured changes in depressive symptoms.
• Participants engaging in group-based art programs were compared to control groups generally receiving usual care, engaging in other active non-art activities, or waiting to participate in a group art-based program.  

What the researchers found

Moderate certainty evidence suggests that, compared to usual care or other active non-art-based activities, group art-based programs may reduce depressive symptoms in older adults. The following program settings, types, and features were associated with symptom reduction:

• Programs delivered in community, care home, and hospital settings
• Music, dance, and visual art programs
• Active approaches (e.g., creating art) and receptive approaches (e.g., observing/experiencing art)

In particular, larger effects may be seen in care home and hospital settings, as well as with music programs and receptive approaches. The evidence on specific program types and features should be interpreted cautiously because some program types and features were represented by more studies than others. More high-quality research is needed to confirm these results and provide a better understanding of the most effective group art-based programs.

Conclusion

Group art-based programs, such as those related to music, dance, and visual arts, may reduce depressive symptoms in later-life, but more research is needed.