Authors (including presenting author) :
Lee CL(1)(2)
Affiliation :
(1)TWGHs Wong Tai Sin Hospital
(2)Department of Rehabilitation & Extended Care
Introduction :
Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) is a structured non-pharmacological intervention recognized for its effectiveness in enhancing cognitive function and quality of life for individuals with mild to moderate dementia (Woods, et al., 2023). Recommended by the UK's National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, CST focuses on mentally stimulating activities that promote implicit learning in a supportive and enjoyable environment (Cheung, at el., 2019). This study evaluates the design and implementation of a cognitive stimulating group activities program tailored for both male and female patients with cognitive decline in rehabilitation wards.
Objectives :
The objective of this study is to assess the efficacy of cognitive stimulating group activities in improving cognitive function and quality of life among patients with cognitive decline.
The program aims to enhance cognitive function of cognitive decline patients and foster engagement through well-structured activities that stimulate memory, language, and social interaction.
Methodology :
The study recruited 58 participants aged 65 and older who were experiencing cognitive decline. Selection criteria included an AMT score of 4 to 7 and a MoCA score below the 16th percentile, ensuring that participants exhibited mild to moderate cognitive impairment. Participants also needed to be able to follow simple commands and have normal visual and hearing functions.
Each group session included 4 to 8 patients, adhering to a target gender ratio of 1:1 (male to female). Over a period of six months, from May to November, a total of 52 sessions were conducted. Each session lasted between 45 to 60 minutes and was designed to incorporate a variety of cognitive training elements.
Data collection included both quantitative and qualitative measures. Quantitative assessments involved pre- and post-intervention AMT scores and tracking the duration of physical restraint weaning. Qualitative data were gathered through participant feedback forms and nursing staff observations, focusing on patient experiences and engagement levels during activities.
Result & Outcome :
Quantitative measures indicated that only 24.1% of participants showed improvement in AMT scores post-intervention. Moreover, over 90% of physically restrained patients were able to attempt restraint weaning during cognitive stimulating activities, with 10% completely weaning off restraints during hospitalization. Qualitative feedback revealed high levels of enjoyment, with patients expressing joy and positive experiences. Notably, more than 90% of participants expressed a willingness to engage in future cognitive stimulating activities.
Conclusion
The implementation of cognitive stimulating group activities demonstrates potential for enhancing engagement and reducing physical restraints among patients with cognitive decline. While improvements in cognitive scores were limited, the positive emotional responses and willingness to participate in the sessions highlight the program's value in promoting a supportive rehabilitation environment.
