The use of compensatory strategies is one treatment technique used in cognitive rehabilitation. Compensatory strategies include environmental modifications, internal strategies such as mnemonics and visual imagery, and external strategies such as the use of external aids. In particular, the use of external aids is commonly implemented into treatment, either alone or in conjunction with other techniques to target memory and executive functioning (Sohlberg & Mateer, 2001, pp. 201-205). A deficit in memory impacts one’s ability to encode and retrieve information while the loss of executive functioning includes the lack of planning, problem solving, and organizing (Sohlberg & Mateer, 2001, pp.163-164). The purpose of an external aid is
…show more content…
A systematic review and meta-analysis on the efficacy of augmentative technology for individuals with cognitive memory impairments, conducted by Jamieson et al. (2013) investigated all studies conducted using technology on individuals with brain damage as a result of traumatic brain injury (TBI) or neurological degeneration of the brain due to disease. The study selection process included specific inclusion/exclusion criteria describing both participant diagnosis and technology type. Of the 794 initial articles found, 43 studies were rated. This review concluded that technological memory aids/ external aids are beneficial in the participation and completion of everyday tasks that require memory (Jamieson et. al., 2013). Additional research to support the use of external aids has been performed in multiple disciplines treating individuals with cognitive impairments, most specifically relating to memory and executive functioning. Specifically, research in the field of occupational therapy performed by Armstrong, Mcpherson, and Nayar (2012) supports the use of compensatory strategies, as it concluded that external memory aids are one of the best approaches for treating individuals with a cognitive impairment as a result of Traumatic Brain Injury. This study was based on results of interviews of eight Occupational Therapists who worked in cognitive rehabilitation. However, this research also suggested that there is gap in cognitive rehabilitation research, as there appears to be a lack of evidence in ways to train clients to ensure that the use of external aids are sustainable. Therefore, it is important to consider further research investigating ways to ensure
A systematic review and meta-analysis on the efficacy of augmentative technology for individuals with cognitive memory impairments, conducted by Jamieson et al. (2013) investigated all studies conducted using technology on individuals with brain damage as a result of traumatic brain injury (TBI) or neurological degeneration of the brain due to disease. The study selection process included specific inclusion/exclusion criteria describing both participant diagnosis and technology type. Of the 794 initial articles found, 43 studies were rated. This review concluded that technological memory aids/ external aids are beneficial in the participation and completion of everyday tasks that require memory (Jamieson et. al., 2013). Additional research to support the use of external aids has been performed in multiple disciplines treating individuals with cognitive impairments, most specifically relating to memory and executive functioning. Specifically, research in the field of occupational therapy performed by Armstrong, Mcpherson, and Nayar (2012) supports the use of compensatory strategies, as it concluded that external memory aids are one of the best approaches for treating individuals with a cognitive impairment as a result of Traumatic Brain Injury. This study was based on results of interviews of eight Occupational Therapists who worked in cognitive rehabilitation. However, this research also suggested that there is gap in cognitive rehabilitation research, as there appears to be a lack of evidence in ways to train clients to ensure that the use of external aids are sustainable. Therefore, it is important to consider further research investigating ways to ensure