An explorative study of the mechanisms of change for CST (V1)
Research type
Research Study
Full title
An explorative study of the “active ingredients” that lead to positive outcomes following Cognitive Stimulation Therapy in dementia care
IRAS ID
227237
Contact name
Jonathan Evans
Contact email
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 7 months, 23 days
Research summary
Title: An explorative study of the “active ingredients” that lead to positive outcomes following Cognitive Stimulation Therapy in dementia care.
Background: Cognitive stimulation therapy (CST) is an evidence-based, psychosocial group intervention, which has been found to enhance cognitive function and quality of life of those with dementia. However, less is known about the “active ingredients” that lead to such positive outcomes.
There has been growing evidence that social connectedness is central to stress and well-being. Due to the level of functional and cognitive impairment in people with dementia, this group could be less able to maintain important social relationships than peers, with significant consequences for well-being.One’s sense of self-efficacy (a person’s belief in their ability to succeed in a specific situation) can play a major role in how one approaches goals, tasks, and situations. Those with dementia experience a decline in independence and a significant loss of control in their lives, likely impacting upon their self-efficacy. CST focuses on fostering individual strengths through themed sessions.
Aims: This study aims to explore if social connectedness and self-efficacy are associated with positives outcomes found in cognition and quality of life following participation in CST. This will contribute to the understanding of CST interventions.
Methods:Participants will include older adults with a diagnosis of mild to moderate dementia attending CST groups within Older People Community Mental Health Teams (OPCMHTs) accross Greater Glasgow and Clyde. Participants will be provided with information on the study by CST facilitators, and will be required to sign a written consent form. Participants will complete assessment measures on cognition, quality of life, social connectedness and self-efficacy prior to, during, and following completion of the CST group. CST groups typically run for 7 weeks. Pre and post measures will be completed within two weeks of CST starting and finishing.
REC name
West of Scotland REC 3
REC reference
17/WS/0188
Date of REC Opinion
13 Sep 2017
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion