Cognitive stimulation therapy

Abstract: Have you heard of cognitive stimulation therapy? The London School of Economics (LSE) has carried out research that shows it to be more cost effective than usual care when looking at the cognitive and quality of life benefits for a dementia sufferer. There is also evidence to suggest that it might be more cost effective than dementia medication, say proponents of this relatively unknown therapy. Joanne Knowles is one such advocate who believes in this therapy so much that she voluntarily campaigns to spread its message.

In this article an advocate for cognitive stimulation therapy (CST), a psychosocial therapy program which is recommended by the National Institute for Clinical Health and Excellence (NICE) for people with mild to moderate dementia, describes the therapy and its use in a one-year pilot with Age Concern Horsham. The pilot programme offered ongoing CST combined with a carers' information course, with CST activity sessions for small groups designed to improve well-being and confidence and to allow participants to function at their maximum capability. The author explains that one of the groups was included in some University College London based research into the experience of attending CST for carers and cared for, and that the cost effectiveness of the programme was positively evaluated by the London School of Economics, and asserts that CST is a simple, evidence-based, cost-effective therapy for people with dementia.