November 2024; A celebration was held today for the participants in a key research project which seeks to apply successful therapies used in dementia treatment to assist people with intellectual disabilities to boost memory and overall quality of life.
The research undertaken saw 11 participants take part in Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) to determine if it could improve the cognition and well-being of adults with intellectual disabilities over a 16-month period.
Irish Rugby’s Second Row star, Joe Mc Carthy said he was delighted to be able to support his brother in what has been an amazing project for people with Down Syndrome.
“Andrew participated in the research from the start, attending assessment sessions and a CST programme over a 12-month period. It’s been amazing to see the impact on his confidence and interactions over the time of his involvement. I hope that programmes like this become mainstream for Andrew and his friends to ensure best possible cognitive health is maintained as they get older.”
Andrew Mc Carthy added “I loved being part of the Brain Busters Project. The activities were fun, and I made new friends. I feel more confident talking to people now, and I’m excited to keep my brain healthy as I get older!”
Dr Sharon Hardiman, Senior Clinical Psychologist, of St. John of God Intellectual Disabil