Depression, anxiety, and mental state in patients with early-stage dementia: comparison of reminiscence therapy and cognitive stimulation therapy

Psychosocial interventions may differentially target affective and cognitive symptoms in mild dementia, yet comparative evidence in long-term care is limited. Objective: To compare the effects of Reminiscence Therapy (RT) and Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) on depression, anxiety, and cognitive functioning in older adults with mild dementia living in long-term care facilities. Methods: A quasi-experimental, quantitative study was conducted with 24 participants diagnosed with mild dementia, allocated equally to RT (n=12) and CST (n=12). Thirteen were male and eleven were female. Data were collected using a Sociodemographic Information Form, the Geriatric Depression Scale, the Beck Anxiety Inventory, and the Standardized Mini-Mental State Examination. Both groups received 10 weekly sessions lasting 90 minutes each. Results: Distinct patterns emerged between the interventions. RT was more effective for emotional symptoms: depressive symptoms decreased significantly (t(11)=8.26, p