A study published in PubMed (public medicine.gov) seems to conclude that so-called "art therapy" is extremely conducive to prolonged stable mental health in older individuals who reside in nursing homes. Art seems to not only improve general disposition and mood but also helps elders who are beginning to struggle with fine motor skills. When one is focused and invested in something, they are seemingly less likely to enter into a state of depression or become anxious about their situation. The authors praise the art programs in nursing homes but do admit that it would be very difficult to integrate such programs into all nursing homes. It is expensive and requires a full time commitment from at least one art instructor. The authors also present the idea that residents can find valuable forms of self expression through artistic endeavors. Being able to blow off steam or other negative emotions via art is a healthy release that promotes well being and also allows the resident in question to formally acknowledge whatever it is they're are struggling with inside. For residents that are severely impaired or unable to engage in communication, art can serve as just that, a way of talking with the world around them and expressing themselves in the process. 
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10114781
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