Implementation of Cognitive Stimulation Therapy

Implementation of Cognitive Stimulation Therapy Across a Healthcare System to Improve Clinical Outcomes of Individuals Living With Dementing Illnesses

This project aims to examine the feasibility of implementing Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) under real world circumstances in a more heterogenous population, with the ultimate goal of making the treatment broadly accessible. The effects of CST on the behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) as a non-pharmacologic intervention will also be studied.

Inclusion Criteria:

• established diagnosis of dementia or meets the criteria for dementia based on a positive screening test with clinical evidence of cognitive impairment affecting one or more ADL
• has a SLUMS score greater than 10.

Exclusion Criteria:

• unable to hold a meaningful conversation,
• unable to hear well enough to participate in a small group discussion
• severe visual impairment that precludes ability to see most pictures
• unable to remain in a group setting for 45 minutes