The Relationship of Cognitive Impairment to Hypnotic Susceptibility in a Sample of Elderly: A Pilot Study

Abstract

The relationship between cognitive impairment and hypnotic susceptibility in elderly individuals was investigated. The Stanford Hypnotic Suggestibility Scale (SHSS; Form C Modified) was administered to 30 volunteers between the ages of 65- 87 who had been evaluated for cognitive impairment. The sample consisted of 14 normal controls, 8 subjects with mild Alzheimer's disease, and 8 subjects with mild cognitive impairment. No significant differences between groups were found on performance on the SHSS. Results suggest that that hypnosis may be a useful adjunct to enhance the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions for elderly patients with mild dementia. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved) (journal abstract)