OT-CSTdem Case studies
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Occupational Therapy and Cognitive Stimulation Therapy: facilitating the occupational performance of people with dementia (Phase 2)
IRAS ID
163729
Contact name
Susan Corr
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
The University of Northampton
Duration of Study in the UK
3 years, 0 months, 0 days
Research summary
People with dementia have identified social participation and prolonged independence in activities of daily living, as important health outcomes for them. However, progressive cognitive decline associated with the disease process can impact upon their engagement in the action of performing the daily life tasks that they need, want or expect to do; their occupational performance. This is a key domain for occupational therapy intervention. A decline in occupational performance can result in loss of independence, decreased quality of life and increased potential risk of harm and consequently a potential increase in demand on the capacity and resources of health and social care services. Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) is a NICE recommended activity-based group intervention, delivering positive outcomes for people with mild to moderate dementia in relation to cognitive function and quality of life and can be delivered by occupational therapists. However current evidence as to whether CST facilitates occupational performance is insufficient.
The aim of this mixed methods study is to examine the potential of CST to support occupational performance, firstly by scoping the use of CST by occupational therapists through survey and interviews. Following this, case studies will examine a) facilitators and measurement of occupational performance during the CST programme; b) whether the Assessment of Motor and Process Skills (AMPS) potentially offers a more accurate and reliable measure for evaluating the impact of CST upon occupational performance than those previously used; c) the potential of the AMPS to inform occupational therapy delivered CST in order to support individuals’ on-going participation in meaningful occupation. The findings will inform: the delivery of occupational therapy for individuals with dementia; the potential of CST to facilitate occupational performance; service planning for this growing population in order to make a meaningful contribution to the quality of life and independence of people with dementia.REC name
East of Scotland Research Ethics Service REC 1
REC reference
15/ES/0062
Date of REC Opinion
24 Apr 2015
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion