Do memory aids help everyday memory? A controlled trial of a Memory Aids Service

ABSTRACT

There is a growing body of knowledge about the use of compensatory memory aids in memory rehabilitation, but relatively few controlled trials on how to train the use of such aids. This study investigated the effects of systematic training in the use of compensatory memory aids on everyday memory functioning within a Memory Aids Service. In a controlled clinical trial, a comparison was made between treatment participants and waiting list controls. Participants had everyday memory problems secondary to progressive or non-progressive neurological conditions. Following baseline assessment and goal setting, treatment participants underwent three training sessions, in which memory aids were matched to goals, across a six week period, with a follow-up assessment 12 weeks later. Outcome was measured by a goal attainment diary, neuropsychological test performance, psychosocial questionnaires and a problem solving inventory. There was a significant treatment effect of training on the goal attainment diary but only at 12 weeks follow-up. A post-hoc analysis indicated that treatment was effective for participants with a non-progressive condition but not for participants with a progressive condition. We conclude that a Memory Aids Service can be beneficial for patients with a non-progressive neurological condition, and make suggestions that might inform future applications of memory aids with those who have a progressive neurological disorder.

KEYWORDS:

• Memory
• rehabilitation
• compensatory aid
• training

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to acknowledge the clinical team of the St Thomas' Neuropsychiatry and Memory Disorders clinic, in particular Dr. Eli Jaldow, Consultant Clinical Psychologist for additional data from the memory clinic, and Dr. Mervi Pitkanen, Consultant Neuropsychiatrist. We would also like to thank Dr. Hana Laing, Consultant Clinical Psychologist at St Thomas' Hospital for provision of baseline data; Ms. Sue Grant for her administration of the Memory Aids Service; Dr. Peter Watson for statistical advice; and the participants in the current study. Professor Kopelman is supported by the KCL/IoPPN Biomedical Research Centre.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.