Implementation of cognition-oriented treatments (COTs) for older adults in Australian memory and cognition clinics: development and pilot evaluation of a clinician training toolkit

Abstract

The uptake of Cognition-Oriented Treatments (COTs) has remained slow in memory and cognition clinics in Australia despite strong research evidence and recommendations for their use in clinical guidelines. A barrier to implementation is clinician knowledge and training in using COTs for older adults. The current study described the development and initial evaluation of a training toolkit to improve Clinical Neuropsychologists' knowledge, skills and confidence in delivering COTs to older adults in Australian Memory and Cognition Clinics. The toolkit, delivered as part of a broader pilot COTs implementation study, included six online learning modules and an in-person workshop. Participants' knowledge and confidence were measured at baseline, while satisfaction and feedback on the training toolkit were assessed post-training intervention. 18 clinicians completed the training toolkit, and 9 responded to the post-training survey. Clinicians' self-rated knowledge and confidence in their ability varied, especially on items about COT delivery. Clinicians were broadly satisfied with the content and delivery of the training toolkit, while qualitative feedback offered opportunities for improvement. The clinician training toolkit has the potential to assist with the implementation of COTs in Australia by developing clinicians' skills and knowledge. Plans include revising the training toolkit and exploring its implementation in additional contexts.