Practical applications for use of PDAs and smartphones with children and adolescents who have traumatic brain injury

Abstract

It is often recommended that individuals with memory and organizational problems after a traumatic brain injury (TBI) use some type of memory device such as a paper calendar. Recently the use of electronic devices has been suggested. This article outlines data obtained from in vivo trials using personal data assistants (PDAs) and follow up in depth studies with PDAs and smartphones. These trials were conducted with individuals who had memory and organizational problems as a result of cognitive disorders of traumatic brain injury (TBI) or intellectual disability (ID) Results indicate that the use of electronic devices can enhance independent behavior. Factors influencing success include: student motivation, audible beep of the device; support for programming and troubleshooting, alterations of functions; and selection of features to motivate. Based on the result of the studies, an intervention plan for use of PDAs was developed for use by clinicians.