Research foundation
The evidence behind our workshops
Our curriculum is built on peer-reviewed research into cognitive stimulation for older adults. Here is what the evidence says and how we apply it.
Research foundation
Why non-pharmacological care matters
A summary of the evidence our curriculum is built on. Full references are listed below.
The limits of medication
Current medications for dementia, such as cholinesterase inhibitors and memantine, may provide modest improvements in memory, attention, and daily functioning for some individuals, but they do not stop or reverse the progression of the disease. As a result, clinical guidelines increasingly recommend combining medication with evidence-based, non-pharmacological interventions that support cognitive function, communication, emotional well-being, and social engagement.
What the trials show
Evidence-based cognitive stimulation interventions are among the most extensively researched non-pharmacological approaches for individuals with mild to moderate dementia. Multiple randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews have demonstrated that structured group-based cognitive stimulation can improve cognitive functioning, communication, quality of life, and social engagement when delivered through consistent, structured programming.
How our curriculum applies it
Our workshop curriculum is built upon these evidence-based principles. Each session incorporates activities designed to stimulate multiple cognitive domains, including autobiographical memory, semantic memory, executive functioning, attention, and language, while simultaneously encouraging reminiscence, meaningful conversation, and social interaction. Research suggests that combining cognitive exercises with enjoyable, person-centered group activities contributes to improved engagement and helps maintain cognitive and psychosocial functioning in older adults with dementia.
Why we insist on a regular schedule
Research indicates that structured group cognitive stimulation delivered on a consistent schedule produces stronger cognitive outcomes than less frequent sessions. For this reason, our workshops are designed to provide regular opportunities for cognitive engagement, meaningful social interaction, and mentally stimulating activities that align with the evidence supporting non-pharmacological dementia care.
References
Selected research
Peer-reviewed sources that inform our program design.
- Aguirre, E., et al. (2013). Cognitive stimulation for dementia: A systematic review of the evidence from randomized controlled trials. Ageing Research Reviews.
- Cove, J., et al. (2014). Effectiveness of weekly cognitive stimulation therapy for people with dementia. Clinical Interventions in Aging.
- Holden, E., et al. (2020). Cognitive stimulation therapy for dementia: Provision in National Health Service settings. International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry.
- Woods, B., et al. (2023). Cognitive stimulation to improve cognitive functioning in people with dementia. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews.