The efficacy of cognitive stimulation therapy (CST) implemented in individuals with dementia: A systematic review

Abstract

Background: With the increase of the elderly population the prevalence of dementia has also increased. Intellectual capacity and cognitive functions quickly decline with dementia, presenting the need for special measures in care-giving. Psycho-social practices have also gained particular importance in the treatment of dementia, besides the drug treatment modalities. The efficacy of Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST), developed for increasing cognitive activity of individuals with dementia, was evaluated in this systematic review.

Material and Methods: In this systematic collection, the effectiveness of Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) developed for increasing cognitive activity of individuals with dementia, is evaluated. CST, as it is described by articles in Pubmed, Cinahl, Wiley Interscience, Sciencedirect, Ovid, Cochrane, Ulakbim Turkish Medical Index, Turkish Medline databases was reviewed. The database research was conducted in English and Turkish using 10 keywords. Six studies were identified using this approach and are included in this review.

Results: It is observed that CST brings about significant improvements in cognitive functions and this offers a better quality of life. Besides, it appears that CST has no stated side-effect. In addition, it is stated that for the CST's proof values strengthening, much more randomly controlled studies are necessary.

Conclusion: In all the studies evaluated, together with the suggestion of new and much more CST being done, it is seen that CST, administered to individuals with dementia, induces positive and provable results.