CST was created in the 1990s by academics at the University College London (UCL). Trialled for over 20 years, the benefits of CST are well documented in numerous scientific studies.
After receiving CST 2x per week for 7 weeks people scored higher in the two most common assessment scales for cognition, the MMSE (Mini Mental State Examination) and the ASAD-Cog (Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale–Cognitive Subscale)1. Quality of life, as measured in the QOL-AD assessment also saw improvement2.
Within the improvement of these general assessment scores, enhancements were seen in the following domains3:
Following instructions, including better able to execute instructions of 1 to 5 steps
Quality of speech (clarity and ability to make oneself understood)
Naming of objects
Word-finding difficulties (finding the desired word in spontaneous speech)
Comprehension (the person’s ability to understand speech)
Improving conversation and communication is thought to underpin the reasons why people (and their carers!) also scored higher on a quality of life evaluation (the QOL-AD scale3), as people’s quality of life increases when cognition is improved.
What is involved in virtual Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (vCST)?
vCST is cognitive stimulation therapy delivered through your computer, one-on-one with a forBetterMinds Coach who is certified in CST methods.
We use the popular video conferencing Zoom app to speak with you.
Each session is themed and includes topics such as word association, object categorisation, discussion of current affairs, and orientation.
There are no right or wrong answers, and the sessions are based on creating new thoughts and ideas and asking people’s opinions rather than relying on factual answers. Asking your opinion and forming new ideas makes you find new ways to express yourself verbally.
Can tolerate 1 hour of sitting
Have no significant hearing or visual impairment that would impact engagement
Have adequate English to engage in conversation
Have the motivation and desire to participate (very important)
References
Spector A., Thorgrimsen L., Woods B., et al. Efficacy of an evidence-based cognitive stimulation therapy programme for people with dementia: randomised controlled trial. British Journal of Psychiatry. 2003;183:248–254. doi: 10.1192/bjp.183.3.248.
Spector A., Orrell M., Woods B. Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST): effects on different areas of cognitive function for people with dementia. International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry. 2010;25(12):1253–1258. doi: 10.1002/gps.2464.
Woods B. T., Thorgrimsen L., Spector A., Royan L., Orrell M. Improved quality of life and cognitive stimulation therapy in dementia. Aging and Mental Health. 2006;10(3):219–226.
Learn about Cognitive Health