CST
Cognitive Stimulation Therapy

CST is a formal, scientific research based process for people in the early stages of dementia.  Conducted in groups of no more than 8 people, CST is person- centered, informal, and light-hearted.

Rooted firmly in the ethos of compassion and acceptance, the aim is to increase the cognition,  curiosity, confidence and self-worth of the group members alongside stimulating all sorts of brain activity, thinking and reminiscence. 

Key principles of activities:

• Reality Orientation;

• Cognitive Rehabilitation;

• Validation Therapy;

• Multi-Sensory Stimulation;

All conducted under the premise of implicit learning - the facilitator is not a teacher; groups learn & grow together.

Ideally, CST runs for 14 sessions, over 7 weeks (2 sessions a week). The group members understand why they are there and become really familiar with each other. The facilitator gets to know their interests and personalities so sessions become more personally tailored.​

Sessions run for 45 minutes 

... but this can be changed. It is proving positive to run double sessions once a week, so as long as an hour  & 1/2 - group energy and response dependant,  starting and finishing with a cuppa.

CST is a formal, therapeutic process, so activities will be carefully planned to include the prescribed range of stimulation in an order found to have most impact.

We can also run CST sessions on line to support those that are homebound or geographically far away.

MCST
Maintenance CST

MCST continues with the same premise and foundations that CST sets, the sessions are less frequent but usually longer than 45 minutes and regular [once a week or alternate weeks] and longer term. Age Uk's Maintenance Cognitive Stimulation therapy was found to have improved, or slowed down the decline of cognitive abilities of people living with mild to moderate dementia. Research showed that clients, carers and staff saw a range of improvements in cognition and a range of other behaviours.

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Sessions run for 60 - 90 minutes

Insight training (CST) for service providers and carers

We provide training to equip individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to conduct care within the premise of  Cognitive Stimulation Therapy effectively. Thus maintaining the wellbeing and confidence in everyday life.

Our resources and support aim to empower professionals working with individuals in the early stages of dementia to deliver high-quality, person-centered care focussing on the maintenance of social confidence, engagement and therefore, overall wellbeing.

CSS
Cognitive Stimulation Sessions

For larger groups, or those that are further along their dementia journey that formal CST is effective for, we offer Cognitive Connection Sessions

on a more ad hoc basis.

Here, we investigate themes of choice via a wide range of artefacts and cognitive challenges, activities and games.

We don't name it 'therapy' (although it feels like it & benefits reflect the CST outcomes!) because we do not adhere so closely to the CST stipulated timescales and range of cognitive functions in each session. These sessions are much more 'open plan' and guided by where the group takes the stimulus.

Resources

Access a collection of resources that explain the premise of CST, its scientific underpinnings, and practical guidance for implementing the therapy.

These materials serve as valuable tools for both professionals and individuals interested in dementia care.