Efficacy of structured cognitive stimulation therapy program for older adults with dementia

Background Cognitive stimulation therapy (CST) is an evidence‐based psychosocial intervention for people with mild‐to‐moderate dementia due to various etiological factors. Objective The aim of the present study was to assess the efficacy of a structured group CST program, in individuals who have vascular or Alzheimer dementia. Methods Older adults with mild vascular or Alzheimer dementia (N = 20) were assigned to one of two programs: one group (N = 10) attended during one year, two sessions per week program of the group structured CST program, while the other, active control group (N = 10) took part in alternative activities. The following domains were examined: cognitive functioning, quality of life, mood, behavior, functional activities of daily living. Results Compared with the active controls, the structured group CST program showed a greater improvement in general cognitive functioning after the intervention (i.e. score increase on the Mini‐Mental State Examination and clock test score). A trend towards improvement was also identified in short term/working memory and perceived quality of life (Quality of life (QoL) of elderly with dementia). No significant differences emerged between the two groups for the other domains considered. Conclusion The present results support the efficacy of structured group CST program in people with dementia. Key Words: Cognitive stimulation therapy (CST), Minimental State Examination (MMSE), Quality of life of elderly with dementia (QoL).