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P3‐219: Cognitive training on elderly Japanese in Osaka: Major outcome (ADAS) from prospective, randomized, open, blinded‐endpoint trial
Author(s) -
Kazui Hiroaki,
Morihara Takashi,
Yokokoji Kimiko,
Kono Ayumi,
Hata Yaeko,
Masuda Kosuke,
Kuwata Naoya,
Okuda Masuhiro,
Takeda Masatoshi
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
alzheimer's and dementia
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 6.713
H-Index - 118
eISSN - 1552-5279
pISSN - 1552-5260
DOI - 10.1016/j.jalz.2009.04.992
Subject(s) - physical therapy , randomized controlled trial , activities of daily living , cognition , psychological intervention , medicine , psychology , personal care , cognitive training , family medicine , psychiatry , surgery
number of community-dwelling AD patients with only minor cognitive and functional deficits. Depressive symptoms are however frequent in these patients, leading to social withdrawal, underachievement, decreased quality of life and increased caregiver burden. Methods: We developed a 12-week therapy program targeting at increasing pleasant activities, establishing daily and weekly routines, applying individualized memory aids, and strengthening personal identity. The program includes both individual therapy sessions and sessions involving the primary caregiver. The efficacy of the program in comparison to standard medical treatment is currently evaluated in a multicentered, randomised, controlled study (‘‘CORDIAL’’) in 200 patients with early Alzheimer’s disease (MMSE< 21). Outcome measures are the patients’ functional ability, mood, quality of life, and non-cognitive symptoms. Results: So far, 190 patients have been recruited (mean age 74 years). The therapy program is well accepted among patients and caregivers, with continuous attendance and few drop-outs. Awareness of cognitive deficits and the relationship between patients and caregivers seem to be crucial for subjectively perceived therapy outcome. Information on the efficacy of the intervention will be presented. Conclusions: Cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy for patients with early Alzheimer’s disease and their caregivers is feasible, therapy methods need however to be adapted to the needs and preserved capacities of this patient group. Especially for early AD patients with depressive symptoms, psychotherapy might become a valuable treatment option.