Participation-centered treatment for elderly with mild cognitive deficits: A "book club" group case study

Mild cognitive deficits in the elderly are associated with emotional and functional difficulties, including lower participation and quality of life. The objective of this article was to operationalize a theoretically driven, participation-centered treatment protocol for this population. The underlying bio-psycho-social mechanisms that impede participation defined the major components of a Participation-Centered treatment for Elderly (PC-E) with mild cognitive deficits to enable successful adaptation. Occupational therapy cognitive and group practice models delineated the treatment methods that address the functional, cognitive, emotional, and social components. A group case study utilizing a "book club" setting was conducted to examine the preliminary effects of the PC-E. Five participants with mild cognitive deficits and significant occupational limitations were treated in a group setting. Participants regularly attended and expressed satisfaction with the treatment. They demonstrated use of external aids and reported attainment of occupational goals in daily lives. Less consistent results were found for acquisition of internal strategies and modification of negative beliefs. These preliminary findings demonstrate the potential utility of the PC-E for elderly with mild cognitive deficits in enabling them to engage in occupations and improve overall well-being. Systematic research to examine PC-E efficacy is required.