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Cognitive Stimulation Therapy explained — what families should know
3 June 2026 · MS Care Team
What is Cognitive Stimulation Therapy?
Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) is a structured, group-based programme of themed sessions designed to actively engage cognition in people with mild to moderate dementia. It was developed in the UK and is now used internationally.
What does a CST cycle look like?
A standard CST cycle runs for 14 sessions over 7 weeks, with each session built around a theme — childhood, food, current affairs, music, faces and scenes, and so on. Sessions follow a consistent structure: orientation, warm-up, main activity, and reflection.
What is Maintenance CST?
Maintenance CST (MCST) extends the original programme. After the initial 14 sessions, weekly sessions continue indefinitely — because the benefits of CST appear to plateau if it stops. This is the format we follow at MS Care.
Is it backed by evidence?
Yes. CST has peer-reviewed evidence for improving cognition and quality of life, and is recommended by major dementia care guidelines internationally.