Cognitive Stimulation Therapy

West Cheshire Memory Service

Introduction

Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) is a therapy for people with mild to moderate dementia. CST is a fun programme of activity sessions, designed to improve wellbeing and confidence. It is a therapy that has been well researched with results showing a positive improvement for the person with dementia.

How is a referral made?

CST is one of the services offered as part of the Older People’s Memory Service for West Cheshire. You can only access this service once you have received an assessment from someone from the Older People’s Memory Service. A general referral to the Older People’s Memory Service should initially come from your GP. If appropriate this may then lead to an assessment by the service where the best course of action for your care will take place. If the health professional you saw at the memory service thinks you would be appropriate for this therapy, they will discuss this with you at the time. You will then be contacted and informed when the sessions will begin.

Where will the group take place?

The group will take place for 1 hour per week over a 10 week period. The group will meet at: Upton Lea Resource Centre, Bowmere Hospital, Liverpool Road, Chester CH2 1BQ You may need to arrange transport to attend the group and to return home. If this causes problems please discuss with the group organiser.

Who will lead the group and what are the sessions?

The group will be facilitated by 2 members of the memory service. Each session has a specific topic.

Some examples of these include:

  • current affairs
  • childhood memories
  • famous faces
  • word games
  • number games
  • creative activity All of the above incorporate discussions and hands on activities.

What will I be expected to do in the group?

The group will consist of approximately 8 participants plus the facilitators. You will be encouraged to take part in the group as a way of stimulating your memories, experiences and knowledge, while focusing on your current strengths. You will get the greatest benefit from the therapy if you can attend all the sessions.

Can my carer come to the group?

The group is for service users only. However you will be given information following the sessions which you can share with your carer to enable you to continue with the therapy at home. If your carer is going to transport you to the group there is parking available and they can use the facilities at the Oasis café which is on site. If you would like more information about the CST group please speak to your health professional at the Memory Service. Alternatively you can telephone on: 01244 397425. The Older People’s Memory Service, West Cheshire, operates between the hours of 9am – 5pm Monday to Friday.

Where are we?

Upton Lea Resource Centre Bowmere Hospital Liverpool Road Chester CH2 1BQ

Tel: 01244 397425 / 7427

For more information look at the Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Foundation Trust website: www.cwp.nhs.uk Information on the Older People’s Memory Service in West Cheshire is also available on NHS Choices.

People who access our services are welcome to talk to the Team Manager if they are experiencing any problems with their care.

 

If you would like this information in another format, please speak to a member of CWP staff or e-mail cwp.info@nhs.net.

June 2018, Version 1