The Experience of People Living with Dementia (PwD) in Participating in Virtual Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (vCST)—a Qualitative Systematic Review

Background: This systematic review aims to explore the experiences of people living with dementia (PwD) participating in virtual cognitive stimulation therapy (vCST). With the global shift of cognitive stimulation therapy (CST) online during the COVID-19 pandemic, little research has explored how PwD experience telehealth interventions. This is the first qualitative systematic review on the experience of PwD participating in vCST. Methods: Following the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology for qualitative systematic reviews, a comprehensive search was conducted across six databases and the grey literature from January 1, 2013, to August 31, 2023. Conclusion: Two synthesized findings were identified from two identified studies. PwD generally reported positive experiences with vCST, but communication challenges online hindered their overall satisfaction. Occupational therapists and facilitators demonstrated excellent ability to tailor telehealth interventions based on environment modification and grading of activities. Communication difficulties specific to telehealth interventions should be reduced to optimize the benefits.