Dementia therapy sessions bring joy to individuals in Hvidovre, Denmark

A small group of individuals with dementia is experiencing moments of joy and connection during a cognitive stimulation therapy (CST) session at a care center in Hvidovre, located in the western suburbs of Copenhagen. This therapy aims to evoke forgotten knowledge and old memories.

The dementia coordinator leading the session emphasizes, “When you feel something is challenging, it’s beneficial to persist. This gets the brain working.” Senior researcher Rikke Gregersen from VIA University College urges that there should be greater political focus on this type of therapy.

While CST cannot cure dementia, research shows it can enhance memory and quality of life. The Danish Health Authority endorses CST in its recommendations for cross-sectoral approaches to dementia care. However, not all municipalities in Denmark provide access to this assistance. Of the 84 municipalities that responded to inquiries, 39 do not offer CST.

Gregersen points out that this is problematic, especially since CST is an effective cognitive method that requires only a one-day training course for facilitators. Of the 45 municipalities that do offer CST, only 22 follow the recommended structure of two sessions per week for seven weeks, ideally followed by 24 additional weeks of weekly sessions.

Financial constraints hinder some municipalities from implementing CST fully, as they struggle to allocate funds for staff training or cover their absence during therapy sessions. In contrast, CST is commonly implemented in the UK, where it is a standard treatment recommended by health authorities.

Gregersen asserts that therapeutic approaches like CST should be taken seriously in Denmark, emphasizing their non-pharmacological nature and lack of side effects. She advocates for maintenance programs post-therapy to sustain the benefits gained.

The Danish Municipalities Association (KL) anticipates that CST will become more widely available in the coming years. Director Christian Harsløf acknowledges an increasing interest in these methods and the need for tailored support for individuals with dementia.