Electronic memory aids for outpatient brain injury: follow-up findings

The introduction of highly portable computers extends the range of tools potentially useful to persons with functional impairments of prospective memory resulting from brain injury. This study reviews the experience of 12 patients with brain injury undergoing outpatient treatment using palmtop computers to assist with memory dependent activities in their everyday lives. During the initial supervised trial period, each was provided a palmtop computer based memory aid capable of generating audible and visible reminder cues. Subsequently, patients were contacted for follow-up between 2 months and 4 years after initial trial usage, and surveyed as to the utility of the computer. Nine patients found palmtop computers were useful during supervised trials. Seven of nine patients actually continued to use such devices after the usage trials had ended. Experience with this technology has shown it to be useful in a high proportion of patients for assisting with memory dependent functions.