Understanding Cognition and Cognitive Decline

Cognition encompasses the mental processes that allow individuals to function in daily life. It involves various abilities such as learning, remembering, and making judgments. These cognitive abilities enable a person to perform tasks, interact socially, and navigate their environment effectively.

What is Subjective Cognitive Decline (SCD)?

Subjective Cognitive Decline (SCD) refers to a self-perceived worsening of cognitive abilities, specifically in memory and executive functions, without objective evidence of impairment measured by standard cognitive tests. Individuals experiencing SCD might notice they are more forgetful than usual—for instance, misplacing everyday items like car keys or a TV remote, or having trouble recalling names or directions.

Implications of SCD

SCD is significant as it can be one of the earliest indicators of potential future cognitive disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. It’s important to note, however, that SCD does not guarantee the development of such conditions, but it can serve as an early warning sign prompting further evaluation and monitoring.

Daily Challenges and Psychological Impact

The impact of SCD extends beyond mere forgetfulness. It can affect the ability to carry out everyday activities, such as cooking, cleaning, and personal care, which in turn can lead to increased dependency on others. The frequent inability to perform routine tasks can also severely affect self-esteem and confidence, contributing to stress and anxiety.

Role of Art Therapy in Managing Cognitive Decline

Art therapy offers a therapeutic approach that can be particularly beneficial for individuals with SCD or early cognitive impairment. Here’s how art therapy can help:

• Cognitive Stimulation: Engaging in artistic activities stimulates the brain, potentially slowing cognitive decline by enhancing neural connectivity.

• Emotional Expression: Art provides a non-verbal medium for expressing feelings and thoughts, which can be especially useful for individuals who might be struggling with verbal expression due to cognitive changes.

• Stress Reduction: The act of creating art is often relaxing and meditative, helping to reduce stress, which is a known factor that can exacerbate cognitive decline.

• Social Interaction: Participating in group art therapy sessions can decrease feelings of isolation and provide social support, important for emotional and cognitive health.

Conclusion

Addressing the challenges of SCD through therapeutic interventions like art therapy can be a valuable strategy for maintaining cognitive health and enhancing quality of life. It can offer not only a creative outlet but also a form of cognitive rehabilitation, which might help to stabilize or improve the perceived decline. For individuals noticing signs of SCD, or for those helping someone with these symptoms, incorporating art therapy can be a proactive step towards managing cognitive health.

Who this course is for:

• Anyone worried about cognitive decline
• Those with ageing relatives
• Anyone treating someone with cognitive decline
• Anyone working in a Care Home/Hospital where elderly are