PDAs as cognitive aids for people with multiple sclerosis.
OBJECTIVE
Cognitive impairment is a common symptom for people with multiple sclerosis (MS). This study evaluated the effects of an occupational therapy training protocol using personal digital assistants (PDAs) as assistive technology for people with cognitive impairment related to MS.


METHODS
Twenty participants were trained to use PDAs by an occupational therapist. Assessments of functional performance were taken at the start of an 8-week pretreatment period, at the beginning and end of training, and 8 weeks after the conclusion of training.


RESULTS
Participants demonstrated the ability to learn how to use basic PDA functions and retain learning for at least 8 weeks. Functional performance increased significantly with PDA use, and this gain was maintained at 8-week follow-up.


CONCLUSIONS
This study provides evidence of an association between an intervention providing training in the use of a PDA and improvements in the everyday function of people with cognitive impairment related to MS.
Gentry
Tony
T
Department of Occupational Therapy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298-0008, USA. logentry@vcu.edu
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D003072:Cognition Disorders; D034201:Computers, Handheld / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D004185:Disability Evaluation; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009103:Multiple Sclerosis; D009788:Occupational Therapy / Q000379:methods; D012656:Self-Help Devices; D014768:Virginia