Rehabilitation approaches in Dementia: An evaluation of three interventions from an Occupational Therapy perspective

Dementia is a complex, progressively degenerative condition resulting in loss of cognitive and functional capabilities, along with a significant increase in degree of dependency. Phase one was a single blind prospective... [ view full abstract ]

Dementia is a complex, progressively degenerative condition resulting in loss of cognitive and functional capabilities, along with a significant increase in degree of dependency.

Phase one was a single blind prospective controlled trial which examined and compared two group intervention approaches, Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) and Sonas - with 28 participants with moderate dementia. Results of phase one supported CST to a greater extent than Sonas with participants in the CST group showing significant changes in cognition (p=.032), and communication (p=.006). Both groups had significant changes in carer rated quality of life (CST p =.019; Sonas, p =.035) and occupational performance within a group setting (CST p=.005, Sonas p=.002).
Phase two presents two single case studies which examine the impact of goal focused Errorless Learning (EL) interventions combined with compensation and modification of the environment with two community dwelling participants. Results supported the use of the interventions in both cases with significant changes in the participants’ abilities to carry out their desired occupations.
The outcomes of this study are positive. This study provides evidence that OT intervention can impact on the trajectory of the condition with people with dementia and demonstrates clearly that they do have rehabilitation potential. Participants responded to all three interventions tested to varying degrees. These interventions could be implemented immediately within existing services and have potential to have a significant impact on the lives of people with dementia and their carers.