Effects of colour narrative in community-dwelling older adults: A mixed methods study.

BACKGROUND

Based on occupational storytelling/story-making, this study developed , a program to promote the health and well-being of community-dwelling older adults.

OBJECTIVES

To conduct a pilot study to implement in a heavy snowfall area of Japan and verify the participants' experiences in the program and its effectiveness.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

An advanced mixed methods design was used. The participants were 22 members of a community-based social group for older adults. Quantitative measurements of life functions and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) were conducted before and after the intervention. Qualitative data were collected from focus group interviews regarding the participants' experiences during the intervention process. Lastly, both datasets were integrated.

RESULTS

The harsh living conditions due to heavy snowfall reduced the participants' overall activity. In this environment, encouraged them to control their lives more in their own ways and enhanced their HRQOL. The core of their experiences was 'negotiating occupations'. This negotiation was a highly intellectual task that significantly improved their cognitive function.

CONCLUSIONS

The structure and content of were found to be useful and feasible for community-dwelling older adults.

SIGNIFICANCE

offers a new occupation-based intervention strategy for preventive occupational therapy.