
Approaches to Cognitive Stimulation in the Prevention of Dementia” is a report by gerontologists at Loughborough University (UK) and German Sports University Cologne. They analyzed studies of cognitive intervention strategies for people with mild memory loss or moderate dementia. They concluded that the practice of cognitive stimulation has 3 fundamental goals, each involving multiple strategies:
- educational training, which teaches people who develop problems about their symptoms, such as onset and duration of memory decline, and ways to cope.
- functional memory improvement, including memory aids (calendars, memory books, etc.), reality orientation (repeated presentation of name, date, time, place, weather, other basic info), and method of loci (mnemonic system for linking an item with a place).
- cognitive functioning techniques, exercising ability to memorize, calculate, perceive, and react, including reminiscence therapy, a clinical intervention that evokes discussion of positive nostalgic experiences, increases motivation and focus, and fosters self-worth, psychological resilience and improved well-being.
