Occupational therapy: Assistive technology recommendations for client ‘George’

Extract

[...] A variety of custom icons could be programmed for him on its desktop creating file folders which would contain the requisite prompts for his activities. For instance, the creation of an audio reminder to buy a certain set of groceries or sundries such as eggs, flour, milk, butter and toothpaste could be easily recorded by George and stored in an appropriately named folder (i.e., Shopping) and easily prompted once he is at the supermarket if he has forgotten what items he intended to buy. [...]

[...] By using this technologically current device, the client is in fact demonstrating his ability to keep informed and ‘live with the times' which should counter- act any negative stigma which could be directed against him (i.e., ageism). The fact that the AIMS software contained within the PDA is directed toward assisted living and promoting cognition and memory retention is an ancillary issue as it is not a demonstrable or socially evident feature of the technology. If the client is concerned of social stigma associated with using a memory support device, the introduction of a hands-free or otherwise connected ear-phone could easily minimize the broadcasting of auditory cues to those in his immediate vicinity. [...]

[...] The client is fond of cooking, and reportedly prepares the principal meal in the household at least three times per week, which indicates he is capable of providing for himself and his spouse. An AT device would therefore find its utility in the home, and as an accompaniment for George when he travels outside the house to undertake various chores, errands, engagements, or exercise. The memory retention tool, an appropriately programmed PDA, would therefore need to be a portable device which could easily accompany him in his activities within and without the household Client Goals The client desires to maintain his active lifestyle despite the onset of intermittent confusion and memory loss. [...]

[...] By applying a questionnaire to review the client's experience with the AT device, it is beneficial to consider the effectiveness and utility of the product in assisting the client with his cognitive memory and performance issues. It is expected that the client's pre-existing familiarity with electronic technology, and his enthusiasm for new developments will be positive correlates to his experience with the PDA. Furthermore, this displayed aptitude should counter-act any negative prejudices surrounding the learning of new appliances and could improve George's self-confidence and sense of accomplishment in learning to master an innovative product. [...]

[...] In essence, to prolong his need for assistive living as a result of incapacity through memory loss Implementation and Usage of PDA device with AIMS George would need to purchase a PDA device, such as a Blackberry, which could be programmed with AIMS software to provide audio and visual sensory inputs to facilitate his memory retention. AIMS instructional media allows the organization of electronic text, images, audio, and video files for self-directed playback to allow the client to follow step-by-step instructions for the performance of a specific activity. [...]