Journal
DISABILITY AND REHABILITATION-ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY
Volume 4, Issue 1, Pages 1-8Publisher
TAYLOR & FRANCIS INC
DOI: 10.1080/17483100802239648
Keywords
Assistive technology; adaptive technology; assistive devices; memory aids; memory strategies; multiple sclerosis; compensation
Categories
Funding
- National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research, Department of Education [H133B031129, H133B031120]
- National Institute of Health, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development [P01 HD33988]
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institute of Health [Grant 5U01AR052171-03]
- EUNICE KENNEDY SHRIVER NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF CHILD HEALTH &HUMAN DEVELOPMENT [P01HD033988] Funding Source: NIH RePORTER
- NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF ARTHRITIS AND MUSCULOSKELETAL AND SKIN DISEASES [U01AR052171] Funding Source: NIH RePORTER
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Purpose. To investigate the use of assistive technology (AT), unmet needs for AT, and examine correlates of use of memory aids and cognitive strategies among individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS). Method. A cross-sectional study of 1,063 community dwelling adults with MS in Washington State. A self-report survey assessed use of AT as well as depression, fatigue, mobility, and other demographic and disease related variables. Results. Some 70% of respondents reported using memory strategies and 50.7% reported using electronic memory aids. The strongest correlate of use of electronic memory aids was endorsement of difficulties thinking (OR: 2.09, p < 0.001) though younger age, higher education, and report of higher fatigue were also significant. Fatigue (OR: 1.27, p < 0.001) and depression (OR: 0.89, p < 0.001) were highly associated with use of memory strategies. Subjects who were older, unemployed, more depressed, and have more mobility disability were less likely to use memory strategies. Conculsions. Use of AT for memory is widespread and further research should be conducted on efficacy of AT. Many individuals who might be presumed to need AT for memory most (older, less educated, more disability) are least likely to report use. Healthcare providers are urged to ask about memory AT and make appropriate referrals.
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