Abstract
Individuals with mild memory impairments often rely on external memory aids (EMAs)
to compensate for impaired cognitive abilities and to support independent completion
of activities of daily living. These strategies are evidence based; however, professionals
have limited knowledge regarding individual preferences and guidance on how to incorporate
a person-centered approach into the EMA development phase. The purpose of the current
study was to qualitatively investigate individuals' preferences and experiences as
they relate to EMAs. Data analysis included (1) evaluation of a posttreatment questionnaire
to explore individual strategy preferences following intervention and (2) evaluation
of group intervention videos using thematic coding to investigate individuals' experiences
with strategies during intervention. Results suggest that older adults with mild memory
impairments have unique preferences and experiences, despite limited variability in
demographic characteristics. Some themes that emerged included memory ability awareness
and attitudes toward technology. Within a person-centered approach, skilled professionals
must consider individuals' unique needs, preferences, and experiences when developing
strategies throughout the continuum of care to promote sustained EMA use within everyday
settings.
Keywords
person-centered care - external memory aids - preferences - neurocognitive - disorder
- older adults
