Relying on procedural memory to enhance independence in daily living activities: Smartphone use in a case of semantic dementia

Abstract

Relying on procedural memory is a promising approach for interventions that address the cognitive difficulties found in semantic dementia. The aim of this study was to determine if procedural memory could be used to optimise learning of relevant smartphone functions in MH, a 55-year-old man with semantic dementia. The impact of learning to use specific smartphone applications, which display concepts and their semantic characteristics, on relearning useful significant concepts, was also explored in MH. This patient, who showed no deficits in procedural learning on a serial reaction time paradigm, was able to learn manipulations related to 15 smartphone functions although, because of his deficit in word comprehension, he generally needed verbal cues to clarify which functions he was asked to perform. Six months after the end of the intervention, he was still using 8 of the 15 functions regularly. However, repeated exposure to concepts through the use of two applications did not improve naming or retrieval of semantic attributes. This study showed the potential of relying on procedural memory to optimise learning of new technologies in the ecological rehabilitation of semantic dementia.

Generalization and maintenance of treatment gains in primary progressive aphasia (PPA): a systematic review

“…In seven studies, positive effects derived from therapy did not result in any kind of generalization (Bier et al . , , , Dressel et al . , Reilly , Senaha et al .…”

Designing Serious Computer Games for People With Moderate and Advanced Dementia: Interdisciplinary Theory-Driven Pilot Study

“…Indeed, when families opt for institutionalization, it is usually on the basis of a loss of the PwD’s ability to eat independently, as well as perform activities related to personal hygiene, such as grooming and toileting [ 12 ]. The development of modalities to maintain aging in place for PwD could include computer-based games specifically designed to accommodate functional limitations and build on their remaining capacities [ 13 - 15 ].…”

Group Communication Treatment for Individuals with PPA and Their Partners

“…Strategies include, but are not limited to, writing, communication books, personal electronic devices (tablets and smartphones), texting, script training, remnants, and communication partner training (CPT). [15][16][17][18][19][20][21][22] Communication treatment in a naturalistic group setting offers one opportunity for PwPPA to meet others with similar challenges. Groups can improve conversational skills, build community, and increase life participation.…”

“…Apps that are built into the mobile device may be utilized strategically in several ways: to help support interpersonal relationships; to create functional lists (i.e., things to remember when packing your suitcase, grocery list); to supplement communication and maintain socialization through texting and email; and to give communication support via contextual, visual, written, and graphic cues provided by apps such as contact list, text, weather, and photos. 17,48,52 In this module, participants are first taught requisite operations of the smart phone (or tablet), including locating the home button, swiping, accessing, and opening apps. After demonstrating operational mastery, participants practice utilizing apps to support their conversation.…”