Efficacy of memory aids after traumatic brain injury: A single case series

Individuals living with traumatic brain injury commonly have difficulties with prospective memory-the ability to remember a planned action at the intended time. Traditionally a memory notebook has been recommended as a compensatory memory aid. Electronic devices have the advantage of providing a cue at the appropriate time to remind participants to refer to the memory aid and complete tasks. Research suggests these have potential benefit in neurorehabilitation.

This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of a memory notebook and specifically a smartphone as a compensatory memory aid.

A single case series design was used to assess seven participants. A no-intervention baseline was followed by training and intervention with either the smartphone alone, or a memory notebook and later the smartphone. Memory was assessed with weekly assigned memory tasks.

Participants using a smartphone showed improvements in their ability to complete assigned memory tasks accurately and within the assigned time periods. Use of a smartphone provided additional benefits over and above those already seen for those who received a memory notebook first.

Smartphones have the potential to be a useful and cost effective tool in neurorehabilitation practice.