A Systematic Review of Cognitive Stimulation Therapy for Older Adults with Mild to Moderate Dementia: An Occupational Therapy Perspective

Abstract

In response to the need for effective non-pharmacological approaches for individuals with mild to moderate dementia, cognitive stimulation therapy (CST) interventions aim to optimize cognitive function. The present literature review explored the effectiveness of CST and the congruence of this approach with occupational therapy. Twenty-four databases and 13 "grey" sources were searched. Relevant papers were analysed using the McMaster Critical Literature Review Guidelines, the Modified Jadad Quality Scale and the Oxford Centre for Evidence-based Medicine Levels of Evidence Scale. To establish the congruence of CST with occupational therapy, themes were identified using the International Classification of Functioning and professional values outlined by the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists. Twelve studies demonstrated a trend towards delayed cognitive decline following CST. This intervention strategy is congruent with occupational therapy values and may provide a useful structural framework to build rehabilitation programmes for this population. Psychometric properties of the McMaster Guidelines have not yet been established, and there is no standardized way to extract quantitative data from this measure. There is a need for further research exploring outcomes of CST interventions within the context of everyday function in individuals experiencing cognitive decline.