Abstract #3495  -  A community-based cognitive rehabilitation group for people living with HIV

Authors:

Presenting Author:

Dr Joanne McCarthy - NHS

Aim:

The aim of the group was to help participants with cognitive impairments: It is estimated that approximately 15% of people with HIV (PHIV) have a mild degree of cognitive impairment and commonly report memory, attention and concentration difficulties. Commonly reported cognitive issues include forgetting to take medication, forgetting to attend health care appointments, not being able to follow conversations and slower processing speed. These issues can be compounded by decreased attention, decreased concentration levels, increased anxiety and low mood. Mood disorders are common in this population with depression and anxiety reported in approximately 25% of clinic attendees. Research indicates that PHIV attribute memory difficulties in particular to the impact of HIV infection and side effects of ARV medication rather than the interactions of mood disorders, coping with co-morbidities and other psychosocial stresses.

Method / Issue:

Method Procedure Six week group for PHIV who have concerns about their cognitive function.  Sessions covered Psycho-education about neuro-anatomy, HIV and cognitive function Models of memory and executive function Strategies for managing cognitive difficulties Measures Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), PHQ-9, GAD-7, Clinical interview Qualitative self-reports of cognitive function and use of strategies for managing cognitive deficits. Participants N = 10 (Male N=7 Female N=3) Age range: 34-67 Level of cognitive impairment ranged from mild to severe Anxiety and depression scores ranged from mild to severe four participants additionally had severe and enduring mental health problems e.g. bipolar, OCD

Results / Comments:

To be added.

Discussion:

Discussion & Conclusions Participants gave positive feedback on the material covered and reported an increase in the use of strategies for managing cognitive deficits. A ‘top-up’ session was requested in order to consolidate material learned. Participants with mild cognitive impairment appeared to benefit more than those with moderate-severe impairment links to other services or individual treatment may be necessary for those with more severe deficits. Comorbidities in this population (e.g. mood disorders, drug use and other infections such as HCV) complicate assessment of cognitive function and need to be incorporated into treatment approaches and rehabilitation. This group meets a growing need for cognitive rehabilitation for PHIV, as this population is ageing and the extent of cognitive deficits is currently unknown.

Go Back