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Reminding technology for prospective memory disability: a case study
M A Flannery1, G J Butterbaugh, D A Rice
1Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70118, USA.
Pediatric Rehabilitation
|August 5, 1998
Summary
A novel memory aid system significantly improved health maintenance for an adolescent with spina bifida and hydrocephalus, reducing the need for reminders from over 75% to under 10%. This technology shows promise for enhancing independence in individuals with prospective memory loss.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Rehabilitation Engineering
- Assistive Technology
Background:
- Prospective memory loss due to brain damage can impede independence in children.
- Individuals with spina bifida and hydrocephalus often require ongoing support for health maintenance tasks.
Observation:
- A 17-year-old with spina bifida and hydrocephalus experienced significant challenges with prospective memory, impacting daily health management.
- The individual required constant reminders for critical tasks like medication adherence and feeding.
Findings:
- A custom-built memory aid system, utilizing off-the-shelf technology, was developed to provide task reminders.
- The system uniquely logged task completion, enabling review of user responses for rehabilitation insights.
- Implementation of the memory aid reduced the reminder rate from over 75% to less than 10%, with rates returning to baseline upon removal.
Implications:
- The developed memory aid system demonstrated a substantial increase in the adolescent's independence in health maintenance.
- While the initial embodiment had practical limitations for wheelchair use, the underlying technology in pocket units holds potential for broader application.
- This approach offers a scalable solution for supporting individuals with cognitive impairments and memory deficits.