UCL Study in Cognitive Stimulation Therapy
A University research study proves that cognitive stimulation can improve mental function and quality of life for dementia patients
Maintaining quality of life and independence for as long as possible is very important for persons with Alzheimer's disease and dementia. To slow the inevitable decline of memory and other cognitive functions associated with these diseases, we need to engage in specific cognitively stimulating exercises to promote continued growth of neurons deep within our brains. The "memory bridges" we continue to build even after diagnosis allows our brain to adapt to the damage being done by the disease. The result is we function better for longer, so we stay home longer.
A review by the University Of Calgary Faculty Of Medicine of a study by the University College, London found that cognitive stimulation therapy was associated with significant improvements in both memory and behavior. "The aim of the original study was to evaluate the effects of cognitive stimulation therapy on knowledge, memory and quality of life for people with dementia, in a randomized, controlled trial." said Dr. Martin Orrell, of the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, UCL. The cost of Alzheimer's disease nationwide in Canada is an estimated $8 to $10 billion per year, including lost wages for family caregivers.
"If we delay the onset of Alzheimer's more serious symptoms by just a few years by slowing its progression, we can really improve the person's quality of life and show enormous savings to health care costs" said John Ashby CSA, a dementia care specialist and executive director of the Cognitive Retention TherapyT program. "The review and the study both confirmed what we have been seeing using the CRT program, big improvements in cognitive function and quality of life. Everyone with a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease should start therapy as early on as possible to get the greatest benefits."