A pilot study on behavioral and cognitive effects of Cognitive Stimulation Training based on 3R Mental Stimulation. The Treviso Dementia (TREDEM) Study

OBJECTIVES: Cognitive Stimulation (CS) trainings are non-pharmacological treatments widely used in dementia care. 3R Mental Stimulation is a particular type of CS, which consists of sequential association of ROT, Reminiscence and Remotivation during the same session. This pilot study sought to investigate whether CS, based on 3R program, could benefit cognitive functions, autonomy and behavioral disorders. METHOD: 3R-CS treatment was applied to 36 patients, which are part of the “TREDEM” study sample, and their caregivers. All patients received a multidimensional assessment consisting of a socio-demographic, clinical and neuropsychological data collection. After CS treatment a significant improvement was detected in cognition and autonomy in basic activities of daily living. Caregiver distress was decreased. Behavioral disturbances were reduced even when considering a potential confounding factor such as treatment with anticholinesterase or NMDA receptor antagonist drugs. CONCLUSION: The findings demonstrated that 3R-CS can benefit cognitive functions and level of autonomy in the basic activities of daily living and also it can reduce behavioral disorders and caregiver’s distress.