Keywords
1. Cognitive Stimulation Therapy
2. Roy Adaptation Model
3. Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
4. Elderly Patient Care
5. Post-Surgical Recovery in Cancer
In a recent study published on January 14, 2024, in The Tohoku Journal of Experimental Medicine, researchers from China have showcased the effectiveness of a unique intervention based on the Roy Adaptation Model designed to aid cognitive function in elderly patients tackling non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) after undergoing curative resection. This significant breakthrough offers a glimmer of hope for improving the quality of life and treatment outcomes for this vulnerable subset of cancer patients.
The study, led by Chen Cong-Ying from the School of Nursing at Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, along with collaborators Ding Hui of Dongyang People’s Hospital and Wang Shang-Shang from Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, has delivered promising results for integrating cognitive stimulation therapy (CST) into the aftercare of elderly cancer patients. The article in question is accessible online with the DOI: 10.1620/tjem.2023.J108.
Non-small cell lung cancer accounts for approximately 85% of all lung cancer cases, which is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. The elderly population is especially susceptible to this disease and often faces additional challenges post-surgery, including cognitive decline. This decline not only impedes their ability to fully recover but also negatively impacts their overall well-being.
Understanding the Study
The study aimed to evaluate if CST could be a viable intervention to support cognitive recovery. CST is a structured program developed for people with mild to moderate dementia to engage in various theme-based activities, prompting conversations and mental stimulation.
The Roy Adaptation Model (RAM), a framework created by nurse theorist Sister Callista Roy, was incorporated into the CST sessions. RAM is grounded in the belief that people are biopsychosocial beings who cope with changes in their environment through adaptation, a process that can be supported through nursing.
Methodology
Researchers conducted a randomized control trial involving a cohort of patients aged 65 or older who had undergone surgery for NSCLC. The intervention group received CST based on RAM principles, focusing on enhancing their adaptation to changes through cognitive challenges. This group participated in a series of sessions designed to improve their cognitive functions, such as memory, attention, and problem-solving skills.
Outcome Measures
The effectiveness of the therapy was measured using various cognitive assessment tools and quality of life (QoL) questionnaires. The primary outcomes were improvements in cognitive function, while secondary outcomes included QoL indicators and the ability to perform daily activities.
Key Findings
The study revealed that patients who received the CST experienced statistically significant improvements in cognitive function compared to those who did not receive the intervention. Moreover, QoL assessments showed that participants in the intervention group reported feeling better equipped to handle daily activities and showed higher levels of psychological well-being.
The Impact of Cognitive Stimulation Therapy
These results imply that CST can play a considerable role in the recovery process for elderly patients after lung cancer surgery. The stimulation of cognitive abilities seems to reinforce the patients’ mental resilience, thereby aiding them in overcoming the challenges associated with post-surgical recovery.
Implications for Patient Care
The study underscores the necessity of considering the mental health and cognitive abilities of cancer patients in their recovery journey. By adopting CST as a part of post-operative care, medical professionals can significantly contribute to the improvement of treatment outcomes and the enhancement of patients’ lives.
Limitations and Future Research
While the findings are encouraging, the study had limitations, such as a small sample size and a short follow-up period. The authors recommend further research to confirm these initial findings, explore long-term effects, and potentially expand the use of CST to other types of cancer and post-operative care plans.
The study represents a step forward in the burgeoning field of comprehensive cancer care, wherein the mental and emotional well-being of patients is given as much attention as their physical recovery. This humanistic approach aligns with the growing recognition of the importance of holistic and integrated therapies in the healthcare sector.
Conclusion
This pioneering research demonstrates the positive impact of Roy Adaptation Model-based Cognitive Stimulation Therapy in elderly NSCLC patients. It not only advances our understanding of post-surgical care but also challenges healthcare professionals to think beyond traditional treatment methods.
As the global aging population and the incidence of cancer among the elderly continue to rise, findings like these are invaluable. They offer empirical evidence for the integration of cognitive rehabilitation techniques into the standard postoperative regimen, promoting a more adaptive and patient-centered approach to healthcare.
For those interested in diving deeper into the study, the article with DOI: 10.1620/tjem.2023.J108 provides comprehensive details on the methodologies and outcomes that could shape future therapeutic strategies for elderly cancer patients.
This research paves the way forward for innovative treatment protocols and shines a light on the intricate interplay between physical and cognitive recovery—the combined focus of which may well define the future of oncological patient care.
References
1. Chen Cong-Ying, C., Ding Hui, H., & Wang Shang-Shang, S. (2024). Effectiveness of Roy Adaptation Model-Based Cognitive Stimulation Therapy in Elderly Patients with Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Undergoing Curative Resection. The Tohoku Journal of Experimental Medicine, 0040-8727. DOI: 10.1620/tjem.2023.J108.
2. Roy, C. (2009). The Roy adaptation model (3rd ed.). Prentice Hall.
3. National Cancer Institute. (2021). Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Treatment (PDQ) – Patient Version. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.gov/types/lung/patient/non-small-cell-lung-treatment-pdq
4. Alzheimer’s Society. (n.d.). Cognitive stimulation therapy (CST). Retrieved from https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-support/daily-living/cognitive-stimulation-therapy-cst
5. Ragneskog, H., & Kihlgren, M. (1997). Can bagatelle simulation therapy reduce the restless behaviour of dementia patients? A pilot study. International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, 12(7), 749-753. DOI: 10.1002/(SICI)1099-1166(199707)12:7<749::AID-GPS589>3.0.CO;2-1.