One of the most widely-used and researched cognitive tools for those with Alzheimer’s and dementia is cognitive stimulation therapy (CST). CST for Alzheimer’s was developed by several dementia experts to help those suffering from cognitive impairment.
An Overview of Cognitive Stimulation Therapy
CST is an evidence-based treatment for Alzheimer’s and dementia that was developed based on extensive research. It is aimed at individuals with mild to moderate dementia. Traditional Cognitive Stimulation Therapy involves group sessions with themed activities. The purpose is to create an ideal environment to actively stimulate cognition for participants.
CST can include a wide range of activities and can be facilitated by any trained health care professional who has experience working with people with dementia. It is a great activity for a memory care home or a day center with a dementia program.
iCST (Individual Cognitive Stimulation Therapy)
A variation on the traditional group CST is iCST, or Individual Cognitive Stimulation Therapy. Some individuals may benefit more from learning in a personalized environment. iCST is derived directly from group CST and is based on the same principles. It utilizes themed sessions to actively engage and stimulate a person with dementia.
Does CST Work?
The short answer to “Does CST work?” is yes. Research has been conducted on the memory, orientation, language, and visuospatial outcomes from CST with promising results. In fact, some research even suggests that using Cognitive Stimulation Therapy for Alzheimer’s is as effective as several commonly used dementia drugs.
There are a number of benefits of CST that have been shown. Individuals with dementia who engaged in CST had more confidence, better concentration, and improved moods. Their language skills were significantly improved, including things like word-finding and comprehension. And maybe most impactful of all, individuals who participated in CST also reported a higher quality of life.
CST at Dolan
Because CST has been shown to be so beneficial, we make use of it as a tool for our residents regularly in our Dolan Memory Care Homes. Residents are able to engage in both group CST and iCST to help with their cognition, memory, language skills, and more. A number of our Care Partners are trained to facilitate Cognitive Stimulation Therapy, and it is an activity many of our residents greatly enjoy! Not only does CST offer cognitive benefits to those in our memory care homes, but it provides an opportunity for social interaction as well, another important aspect of life in the best memory care homes.
Overall, CST is a powerful dementia treatment backed by evidence and supported by research. It is a beneficial part of life in a memory care home, and can provide positive outcomes for those with Alzheimer’s and dementia.
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