Cognitive stimulation therapy (CST) for people with dementia in practice: An observational study

  1. Streater, Amy 2
  2. Spector, Aimee 1
  3. Aguirre, Elisa 2
  4. Orrell, Martin 3
  1. 1 University College London
    info

    University College London

    Londres, Reino Unido

    ROR https://ror.org/02jx3x895

  2. 2 Goodmayes Hospital
    info

    Goodmayes Hospital

    Ilford, Reino Unido

    ROR https://ror.org/00x0j8257

  3. 3 University of Nottingham
    info

    University of Nottingham

    Nottingham, Reino Unido

    ROR https://ror.org/01ee9ar58

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Journal:
British Journal of Occupational Therapy

ISSN: 0308-0226,  1477-6006

Year of publication: 2016

Volume: 79

Issue: 12

Pages: 762-767

Type: Article

DOI: 10.1177/0308022616668358 GOOGLE SCHOLAR lock_openOpen access editor

More publications in: British Journal of Occupational Therapy

Abstract

IntroductionThe delivery of cognitive stimulation as a cognitive based psychosocial intervention for people with mild to moderate dementia is supported in the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines. There is a strong evidence base for its effectiveness in providing improvements in cognition and quality of life for people with dementia. However, less is known about its delivery and its impact using outcome measures when used in practice.MethodsA 1-year observational study was conducted, which measured the cognition and quality of life of 89 people with dementia living in care homes and the community and were in receipt of cognitive stimulation therapy and a maintenance programme as part of their usual care in practice.ResultsA paired sample T-test demonstrated a significant improvement in cognition. Quality of life remained unchanged for people with mild to moderate dementia.ConclusionsThis study reports promising findings with demonstrated benefits for people with dementia and strengthens the evidence base supporting its use in routine care. However, attention should be given to the level of cognitive impairment of attendees. This research is relevant to the field of occupational therapy as the profession has knowledge of using psychosocial interventions and a commitment to evidence-based practice.

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