Clin Gerontol. 2023 Apr 20:1-13. doi: 10.1080/07317115.2023.2203139. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVES: Cognitive stimulation therapy (CST) is an evidence-based intervention for dementia. This program evaluation examined the outcomes of a modified CST program in a veteran sample.
METHODS: Twenty-five veterans who participated in a once-weekly, 7-week CST program and completed pre/post-group assessments were selected for inclusion in this chart review study. In this diverse sample (Mage = 74.40; 44% White, 44% Hispanic/Latinx, 8% Black, 4% multiracial), most had a suspected neurodegenerative etiology. Paired-samples t-test examined QoL and cognitive pre/post-intervention scores.
RESULTS: Statistically significant improvements were observed in RBANS total index scores (Cohen’s d = 0.46). Although there was not a statistically significant change in MoCA scores or patient QoL-AD ratings, there were small effects in the predicted direction (Cohen’s d = 0.29 and 0.30, respectively). There was no significant change or effect on caregiver QoL-AD ratings (Cohen’s d = .09).
CONCLUSIONS: A modified, once-weekly 7-week CST program for veterans was feasible and demonstrated positive outcomes. Improvements were observed in global cognition and there was a small, positive effect on patient-rated QoL. Given that dementia is often progressive, stability of cognition and QoL are suggestive of the protective effects of CST.
CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: CST is feasible and beneficial as a once-weekly brief group intervention for veterans with cognitive impairment.
PMID:37078292 | DOI:10.1080/07317115.2023.2203139
