Reduced Pain Medication Use Following Virtual Art Therapy in a Skilled Nursing Facility Patient: A Case Report

Chronic pain and sleep disturbances significantly affect quality of life, particularly in older adults. Effective management often combines pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions. Art therapy has shown benefits in reducing pain, promoting relaxation, and improving emotional well-being. While traditional art therapy is well-documented, virtual adaptations are less explored, especially in geriatric populations. This report describes a 78-year-old woman with chronic pain and sleep disturbances linked to peripheral neuropathy, lower extremity vascular disease, and multiple musculoskeletal injuries. Despite treatment with gabapentin, oxycodone, and other medications, her sleep remained severely disrupted, averaging only one to 1.5 hours at a time. The patient began using "Vita Color for Seniors," a virtual coloring application, dedicating one to 1.5 hours daily. Within two weeks, she reported sleeping four to five hours straight, a notable improvement, and reduced reliance on pain medication. The structured and interactive design of the application likely facilitated meditative states, promoting relaxation and consistent use. Virtual art therapy may address physical and emotional challenges, offering an accessible intervention for older adults with chronic pain. This case highlights the potential of digital art therapy as a scalable adjunct to traditional treatments. Further research is needed to evaluate its long-term efficacy and broader applicability.