Effects of Group Therapy by Higher Cortical Dysfunction Patients

Aims: In Japan, the higher cortical dysfunction supporting project started mainly at the prefectural level in 2006. We started group therapy with higher cortical dysfunction patients from 2008. Approximately 20 patients... [ view full abstract ]

Aims: In Japan, the higher cortical dysfunction supporting project started mainly at the prefectural level in 2006. We started group therapy with higher cortical dysfunction patients from 2008. Approximately 20 patients participated in this group therapy. This study is to verify the effect of group therapy with higher cortical dysfunction patients for a self-efficacy of 2 years.
Methods: Subjects were 7 patients (53.6±11.5 years old) with higher cortical dysfunction who participated in group therapy. We investigated the general their self-efficacy scale (GSES) for 2 years. We also scored their comments in group therapy. Results for GSES were analyzed by Friedman test. In addition, we analyzed their comments in the group therapy using the Kawakita Jiro (KJ) analysis tool.
Results: At the start of the group therapy GSES scores were 10.5±3.9. However scores changed to 8.6±4.3 after 0.5 years, 9.1±4.1 after 1 year, 9.2±4.3 after 1.5 years and 10.7±2.7 after 2 years respectively. Comments analyzed contained statements such as “I don’t have any difficulty in my life” when starting the group. However, after 1.5 years the same subject stated, “I can’t cook. Please help me.”
Discussion：The starting group therapy after 0.5year showed patient’s self-efficacy was low. However after 1year their self-efficacy was back high again. Group therapy for higher cortical dysfunction patients increased self-efficacy and awareness.