Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 26, 2026

Hydra, a Computer-Based Platform for Aiding Clinicians in Cardiovascular Analysis and Diagnosis
Published on: September 26, 2018
Smartwatch aids time-based prospective memory in Korsakoff syndrome: a case study
Beth Lloyd1,2, Erik Oudman1,2, Mareike Altgassen3
1a Helmhotz Institute, Experimental Psychology , Utrecht University , Utrecht , The Netherlands.
Smartwatches and smartphones significantly improve prospective memory (PM) and time accuracy in individuals with Korsakoff syndrome (KS). External memory aids offer substantial benefits for PM task performance in this population.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive neuroscience
- Neuropsychology
- Rehabilitation sciences
Background:
- Prospective memory (PM), the ability to recall future intentions, is crucial for daily functioning.
- Korsakoff syndrome (KS), a neurological disorder often resulting from chronic alcohol abuse, severely impairs executive functions, including PM.
- Investigating assistive technologies for cognitive deficits in KS is essential for improving quality of life.
Observation:
- This study examined the efficacy of a smartwatch and smartphone as external memory aids for individuals with KS.
- Participants' time accuracy and performance on PM tasks were compared across three conditions: smartwatch use, smartphone use, and no aid.
- The use of digital memory aids was directly assessed for their impact on cognitive support.
Findings:
- Time accuracy was significantly enhanced when participants used a smartwatch compared to a smartphone or no aid.
- Both smartwatch and smartphone conditions demonstrated superior effectiveness in supporting memory for PM task content over the no-aid condition.
- External memory aids provided measurable benefits for prospective memory functioning in KS.
Implications:
- Smartwatches and smartphones can serve as valuable tools to mitigate PM deficits in individuals with KS.
- The findings support the integration of wearable and mobile technology into rehabilitation strategies for cognitive impairments.
- Implementing external memory aids may improve functional independence and daily task completion for people with KS.
More Related Videos
05:51Assessing the Accuracy of Fitness Smartwatch Data for Cardiovascular and Physical Activity Monitoring: A Validation Study in Digital Health
Published on: February 21, 2025
05:03Patient Directed Recording of a Bipolar Three-Lead Electrocardiogram using a Smartwatch with ECG Function
Published on: December 11, 2019
Related Concept Videos
Acute Coronary Syndrome III: Diagnostic Studies
System of Memory
Working Memory
Long-Term Memory
Long-term memory can be categorized into two primary types: explicit and implicit memory. Explicit memory, also known as declarative memory, involves the conscious recollection of information that we deliberately try to remember, recall, and articulate. This type of memory encompasses specific facts, events, and...
Traumatic Memory
Repressed Memory