Objective: This study aims to culturally adapt, translate, and test the feasibility and acceptability of delivering cognitive stimulation therapy (CST) for persons with mild to moderate dementia in Chennai, India.
Methods: The adaptation followed a five-stage process in accordance with the formative method for adapting psychotherapy. Focus-group discussions with experts and feedback from participants, carers, and facilitators after two consecutive pilot studies provided the basis for adaptation.
Results: Substantial modifications were required. The adapted program was found to be an acceptable, enjoyable, and constructive by participants and carers alike.
Conclusion: CST was successfully adapted for use in South India. Translations into other Indian languages using the adapted manual are required for nation-wide implementation. Large-scale clinical trials are required to replicate global reports on the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of CST in India across different settings.
Keywords: CST; India; adaptation; cognitive stimulation; cognitive stimulation therapy; cognitive therapy; culture; dementia.
Copyright © 2017 American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.