Synonyms
Cognitive assistive technology; Cognitive orthotics; External memory aids
Definition
Prosthetic memory aids refer to external tools designed to facilitate performance of functional activities that require intact memory. The tools promote compensation for memory impairments rather than remediation of the underlying memory problem by helping people successfully complete activities or tasks that might otherwise be impeded by a memory failure. Examples of prosthetic memory aids that require no or limited technology are memory or appointment books, calendars, checklists, or watches with alarms. There are also a number of electronic or digital devices that are used as memory aids including laptops, personal digital assistants (PDA), cell phones, and pager systems.
Current Knowledge
Frequently, prosthetic memory aids are used to prompt the completion of a target action at specified times such as following a daily schedule. Some tools are designed for the completion of specific tasks...
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References and Readings
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Sohlberg, M.M. (2018). Prosthetic Memory Aids. In: Kreutzer, J.S., DeLuca, J., Caplan, B. (eds) Encyclopedia of Clinical Neuropsychology. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-57111-9_1098
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-57111-9_1098
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Publisher Name: Springer, Cham
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Online ISBN: 978-3-319-57111-9
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