Cognitive Function and Assistive Technology for Cognition: A Systematic Review

Abstract

The relationship between assistive technology for cognition (ATC) and cognitive function was examined using a systematic review. A literature search identified 89 publications reporting 91 studies of an ATC intervention in a clinical population. The WHO International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) was used to categorize the cognitive domains being assisted and the tasks being performed. Results show that ATC have been used to effectively support cognitive functions relating to attention, calculation, emotion, experience of self, higher level cognitive functions (planning and time management) and memory. The review makes three contributions: (1) It reviews existing ATC in terms of cognitive function, thus providing a framework for ATC prescription on the basis of a profile of cognitive deficits, (2) it introduces a new classification of ATC based on cognitive function, and (3) it identifies areas for future ATC research and development. (JINS, 2012, 18, 1-19)

Web accessibility and technology protection measures: Harmonizing the rights of persons with cognitive disabilities and copyright protections on the web

“…Some argue that TPM is not compliant with WCAG, and often is incompatible with the use of assistive technologies (Ellis & Kent, 2011;Helberger et al, 2004;Kerscher & Fruchterman, 2002;Kramer, 2007). Assistive technologies include any technologies used to "increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of persons with disabilities" (ATIA, 2015), including applications for persons with cognitive disabilities (Gillespie, Best, & O'Neill, 2012). Ellis and Kent (2011) point to the complex effect of legislation that makes circumventing TPM illegal.…”

Automatic Task Assistance for People with Cognitive Disabilities in Brushing Teeth - A User Study with the TEBRA System

“…In recent years, there were several attempts to classify ATC interventions according to cognitive functions for which the ATC compensates for [LoPresti et al 2004;Gillespie et al 2011]. LoPresti et al distinguish between ATC compensating for executive function impairments and information processing impairments [LoPresti et al 2004].…”

“…People with cognitive disabilities form a primary group of healthcare recipients due to their limited capabilities in cognitive functioning such as perception, reasoning and remembering [Gillespie et al 2011]. Problems related to this functioning appear in a human's daily routine where the successful execution of Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) is an integral part of an autonomous and self-determined life.…”

ForgetMeNot

“…Reminding apps are often designed as digital calendars or diaries into which reminders or alerts can be entered. Smartphone reminding software has been shown to be effective in helping people to compensate for memory difficulties [13,16]. They have an advantage over traditional memory aids such as paper diaries because they can actively prompt people ahead of their intended activities [30].…”