A feasibility randomised control trial of individual cognitive stimulation therapy for dementia: impact on cognition, quality of life and positive psychology

Abstract

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of a 14-session programme of individual Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (iCST) for people with dementia (PWD). It addressed potential limitations in previous literature of iCST and evaluated possible impact on cognition, quality of life (QoL) and positive psychology.

Method

The 14-session iCST programme was developed using existing manuals for group and individual CST and consultation with experts in the field. Thirty-three PWD were recruited from care homes and randomly assigned to iCST (14, 45-min sessions) or treatment as usual (TAU) over seven weeks. Outcomes measures were assessed at baseline and follow-up after the intervention.

Results

The intervention appeared feasible with high attendance to sessions, minimal levels of attrition, and ease of recruitment. Analysis of covariance indicated significant improvements in cognition (Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive subscale) for PWD receiving iCST compared to TAU. There were no significant differences between groups on follow-up scores on the standardised Mini Mental State Examination, measures of positive psychology or self- and proxy- reported QoL.

Conclusion

A 14-session programme of iCST delivered by professionals was feasible and acceptable to PWD and may provide benefits to cognition. A larger randomised control trial would be necessary to fully evaluate intervention impact on cognition, as well as QoL and positive psychology.

Keywords:

• Cognitive stimulation therapy
• dementia
• individual therapy
• quantitative methods
• feasibility

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to acknowledge all the participants involved in this study and the staff who supported in recruitment and accommodated researchers in their care homes. The authors would also like to acknowledge Daniela Rouse, Saul Rodgers and Dara Leung for their support in administering assessment measures.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This project was supported by University College London as part of a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology thesis.