Volume 15, No. 2, Spring 2007	Previous Issues Subscribe to AT Messenger Download PDF Viewer
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Technology for Transition–Memory Aids

We've all occasionally experienced challenges caused by memory loss:

• Being late because we couldn't remember where we put our car keys.
• Walking into a room then forgetting why we went there.
• Forgetting someone's name.

Millions of Americans face the challenges caused by memory loss on a daily basis. Chronic memory loss may interfere with the ability to live a productive life and threatens independence.

Memory loss may be temporary or it may last a lifetime. Causes include:

• Stress/fatigue
  
• Depression
• Mild cognitive impairment
• Traumatic Brain Injury
• Age
• Dementia caused by:
• Medication side effect
• Medical condition.

Memory is a critical consideration during transition planning. When a person routinely forgets important tasks such as taking medication or making meals, transitioning to a home environment may be problematic. When a person can't remember the tasks necessary to perform a job, transitioning to or maintaining employment becomes a challenge. When a person cannot remember the names of family and friends, communication becomes strained.

Today individuals with memory loss can turn to technology for help in remembering important information and steps necessary to perform basic tasks independently. This independence may be all it takes to help the individual transition to a home or work setting. Memory aids may be inexpensive and used for a specific task such as taking medication or they may be cutting edge devices that can be used in a variety of settings. This article includes a small sampling of assistive technology for individuals with memory loss. Before purchasing a device, consider contacting an AT professional to determine if an assessment or device trial is needed. A listing of AT professionals in Delaware is available in the AT Provider Directory on the DATI website (www.dati.org).

Memory Aids

A medication reminder with an automatic timer may help individuals take their medication on time.

A talking calendar and clock helps individuals keep track of the date and time.

A talking timer can be programmed with your own voice recording.

An appliance timer eliminates the need to remember to turn appliances on or off.

Talking picture frames and albums help individuals remember family and friends.

 

 

A Pocket PC with specialized software from AbleLink Technologies provides mobile solutions for use in a variety of settings. Software applications include:

• Schedule Assistant, a multimedia scheduling application for individuals with cognitive barriers to reading. Appointments or events can be entered by recording an audio message and designating the day(s) and time for the message to activate. A picture or icon can also be displayed when the message displays. Create audio reminders with picture cues to remind users to catch a bus, take medication, or how to perform morning routines.
  
• Pocket Coach, which can be used with a Pocket PC to record a series of personalized step-by-step audio instructions explaining how to perform educational, vocational or independent living tasks.
• Visual Assistant, which provides task-prompting support using digital pictures with custom recorded audio messages on a Pocket PC to provide step-by-step instructional support. Visual Assistant is ideal for more complex or detailed tasks where the addition of digital pictures of each step of the task can increase accuracy.

Almost all of the products identified in this article are available for demonstration and short-term loan from the DATI Assistive Technology Resource Center in your county. Contact the center closest to you to arrange for a demonstration or equipment loan.

AT Resources

AbleLink Technologies
www.ablelinktech.com

Independent Living
www.independentliving.com

Dynamic-Living
www.dynamic-living.com

Life Home
www.lifehome.com

Maxi Aids
www.maxiaids.com

SmartHome
www.smarthome.com

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This article is based on one originally appearing in the Spring 2006 issue of Constellations, the newsletter of the Minnesota STAR Program. DATI has been granted permission to share it with our readers.