Factors influencing the level of creative participation of nursing home residents: An observational cohort study

Introduction: The Vona du Toit Model of Creative Ability (VdT MOCA) is a widely used theoretical framework that has the potential to improve meaningful participation among nursing home residents. No published research evidence supports its use in occupational therapy with older people. Method: We used a quantitative cross-sectional observational cohort study design to identify factors influencing the level of creative participation of 30 nursing home residents ( M age = 87.2, SD = 8.42) in South Africa, using the Creative Participation Assessment (CPA), demographic and participation data, the Allen Cognitive Levels Screen (ACLS-5) and the Barthel Index. Statistical analysis included correlations and multiple linear regression. Results: The CPA showed residents presented with a range of levels of creative ability from Tone to Active Participation. Although being independent living before nursing home residence was correlated with the CPA ( p = 0.04), the regression analysis showed that only functional cognition ( p < 0.001) and independence in self-care ( p = 0.008) independently predicted CPA levels. Conclusion: Our findings support the use of the VdT MOCA with the oldest old. Using this model, occupational therapists can support older people in nursing homes to continue achieving their potential using cognitive stimulation and carer training to optimise residents’ participation in self-care.