Cognitive Rehabilitation in Alzheimer's Disease

Cognitive Rehabilitation in Alzheimer's Disease (AD)

This study aims to proof the efficacy of a cognitive rehabilitation program for patients with mild dementia in Alzheimers Disease with respect to activities of daily living.

This prospective randomized, single blind intervention study aims to proof a cognitive rehabilitation program for patients with mild dementia in Alzheimers Disease (AD). The investigators modified a manualized and established German behavioural therapy program (KORDIAL) to use in a group context. The respective modules contain multimodal and multiprofessional approaches to improve capabilities relevant to activities of daily living (external memory support, compensation strategies, training of everyday competence, communication training). The intervention group receives this therapy for 12 weeks. Age and gender matched participants with AD serve as active control sample receiving a standardized cognitive training in the domesticity. The primary outcome are measurements of skills in activities of daily living prior the intervention as well as at the end of the intervention (after 3 months) and after 6 months (Follow up).

Inclusion Criteria:

• mild dementia in Alzheimer's disease (NINCDS-ADRDA)
• Mini Mental State ≥ 17

Exclusion Criteria:

• severe psychiatric disorder
• severe brain disorder (epilepsy, tumor, stroke)
• contraindication for MRI examination