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Memory Systems
Business executives have their "Franklin Planners" or "Palm Pilots", teachers have their lesson plan books, and actors have their scripts. These are all tools which assist them in doing what they need to do. In fact, we all could benefit from a structured approach to pursuit of our goals, to completion of our priority tasks, and to living up to our basic values.

For someone who has had a traumatic brain injury, however, such tools are not just important for goals, priorities, and values. Being able to routinely use some type of "memory system" is the key to getting through each day! Whether on the job, in school, or simply remembeing to bring home a loaf of bread, some external assist is needed. When memory and executive functioning have been compromised, then new ways must be found. Some memory systems may be designed with the professional in mind, while others may be more focused on daily living skills. Either way, the goal is the same: To provide structured memory and management tools for those who no longer have full use of their own inherent skills in those areas.

Note: Phrases such as "assistive technology" and "memory orthotic device" can be used for rehab prescriptions and insurance reimbursement purposes, if such eligiblity is pertinent. For a person recovering from a traumatic brain injury, a solid memory system is every bit as important as a mobility device. Both can help to provide a sense of independence!

Some people swear by computerized systems (and other people swear AT them). Some people feel that color-coded paper systems are best. Whatever is chosen, stick with it. If you are the person recovering from a TBI, then you need to let your memory system become your best friend -- call it "Fred" or "Bob", if you must -- but use it every day, every hour, every moment when you need to take control of your life. Listed below are some of the alternatives available today.

  • How Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs) Work [1]
  • TreePad Personal Information Manager [2]
  • Palm.com [3] (Palm Pilot, etc.)
  • FranklinCovey [4] (Franklin Planner, etc.)
 

Return to Alternatives page [5]




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Links in this article
  [1] http://www.howstuffworks.com/pda.htm
  [2] http://www.treepad.com/
  [3] http://www.palm.com/
  [4] http://www.franklincovey.com/index.html
  [5] http://www.intebic.com/Article5.html