Term 2 Expressions of Interest NOW OPEN! Home Programs Available.
Are you an NDIS or HCP coordinator?
CST can be fully funded by NDIS and HCP, and we help with funding requests to make things as easy for you as possible.
Submit an enquiry form to begin.
You’re busy enough as it is — you just want to know how to help them
-
It’s clear they’re struggling, and you don’t want them to withdraw any further. You’re looking for a way to kickstart their journey towards rebuilding their sense of self and joy for life.
-
It’s getting harder and harder to connect with them. While things might not be how they used to be, you still want to understand your loved one and find a way to strengthen your bond.
-
You need to take care of yourself too, but there just isn’t enough time in the day. You’d love a little breathing room — a bit more balance.
No one has to face this alone
Too often, people are left to feel hopeless after being diagnosed with dementia, convinced their only option is to “get their affairs in order.” This can make people withdraw from their family, friends, and society, potentially causing the disease to progress faster.
We’re here to change that story.
At Absolute Care Therapy, we don’t believe that a dementia diagnosis has to mark the end of a fulfilling life.
The right support can potentially slow the disease and help people find purpose and joy.
That’s why we’re here. And that’s why we focus on CST.
“Thank you for being so kind and compassionate. it was lovely to see a health professional engaging with [client] in such a caring way" — NDIS Support Coordinator
What is Cognitive Stimulation Therapy?
Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) is an evidence-based program designed to support people living with mild to moderate dementia.
It's about keeping the mind active and engaged through personalised, interactive activities that combine cognitive, social, and physical stimulation (like memory exercises, engaging discussions, and gentle movement)
Going to the gym keeps your muscles strong. CST does the same for your brain.
The goal is to improve confidence and self-worth, helping people feel more engaged, social, and excited about doing the things they love.
The Science Behind Cognitive Stimulation Therapy
Research shows that Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) can help people living with dementia enhance their thinking skills, mood, and quality of life—and may even slow down cognitive decline.¹⁻³ This is partly due to the brain’s natural ability to adapt and form new connections, known as neuroplasticity. CST taps into this ability by providing regular, meaningful stimulation that helps the brain stay active and engaged.⁶
It’s also based on the well-known “use it or lose it” principle: when the brain isn’t challenged regularly, cognitive changes may progress more quickly.⁵
Studies show that when caregivers and support staff understand the basic principles of CST, they’re better equipped to provide thoughtful, person-centred care.⁴ This shared understanding often leads to stronger relationships, more positive experiences, and reduced stress for everyone involved.
At its heart, CST isn’t just about cognitive benefits—it’s about helping people feel valued, connected, and supported in their daily lives, and rebuilding a sense of confidence and self.
Eligibility
To be eligible for our group CST programs, someone must:
-
Have a diagnosis of — or show signs of — mild to moderate dementia.
-
Be interested in and able to participate in a small group setting.
-
Be comfortable with seeing and hearing well enough to engage with the program.
-
Be able to manage transport arrangements and use the toilet independently.
-
Be able to attend most sessions at our Melville Clinic on the scheduled dates.
Not sure if your loved one is eligible?
Our Cognitive Stimulation Therapy Programs
"The program brought immense happiness to [client]; she's excited to continue with the maintenance program" - HCP coordinator
How to Enrol in the Programs
Submit an enquiry form or
1
After we understand your loved one’s needs, we may invite you to book an
2
If CST suits your loved one, we’ll invite them to enrol in one of our upcoming programs
3
"It's nice to be in a group where others understand, accept, and support each other" - Group CST participant
Why choose Absolute Care Therapy?
_edited.png){kind=small}
Perth’s CST leader. As Perth’s only private provider of this evidence-based program, your loved one will experience a globally recognised, evidence-based therapy they won’t find anywhere else.
Redefining the dementia experience. Too often, a dementia diagnosis leads to feelings of hopelessness. We’re here to change that story.
Empowering families. Dementia is a “family disease.” That’s why we equip you with the knowledge and tools to understand your loved one better and, in turn, provide better support.
Care that’s truly personalised. Everyone’s experience is different. That’s why we create tailored programs that meet your loved one’s specific circumstances, needs, and goals.
Whole-person approach. Our support goes beyond cognitive exercises to include emotional, physical, and social wellbeing. It’s a balanced, practical approach to care.
Multifaceted care. We combine years of medical knowledge, clinical experience, and specialised neuro-physio skills to deliver the highest standard of dementia care.
Walking the journey together. From early intervention to ongoing care, we’re here for the long haul, offering therapy and guidance every step of the way.
.png)
About Amanda
With over 20 years of experience supporting people with complex needs to live independently and well, Amanda is passionate about helping individuals stay engaged, independent, and connected.
Learn more about Amanda's experience and approach here>
Frequently Asked Questions
.png)
Evidence for Cognitive Stimulation Therapy
-
Desai, R., Leung, W. G., Fearn, C., John, A., Stott, J., & Spector, A. (2024). Effectiveness of cognitive stimulation therapy (CST) for mild to moderate dementia: A systematic literature review and meta-analysis of randomised control trials using the original CST protocol. Ageing Research Reviews, 102312.
-
Yates, L. A., Leung, P., Orgeta, V., Spector, A., & Orrell, M. (2014). The development of individual cognitive stimulation therapy (iCST) for dementia. Clinical Interventions in Aging, 10, 95–104. https://doi.org/10.2147/CIA.S73844
-
Leung, P., Orrell, M., Yates, L., & Orgeta, V. (2023). A predictive model of carer resilience in dementia family caregiving: A structural equation modelling approach. International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, 38(7), e5945.
-
Vernon, E. K., Cooley, B., Rozum, W., Rattinger, G. B., Behrens, S., Matyi, J., ... & Tschanz, J. T. (2019). Caregiver-care recipient relationship closeness is associated with neuropsychiatric symptoms in dementia. The American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, 27(4), 349–359.
-
Small, G. W., et al. (2002). The mental activity and brain health connection. Journal of the American Medical Association.
-
Valenzuela, M. J., & Sachdev, P. (2009). Cognitive reserve and lifestyle: A systematic review of the evidence. Brain Research Reviews, 61(1), 1–23. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.brainresrev.2009.04.004
