title: Use of cognitive aids and other assistive technology by individuals with multiple sclerosis.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To investigate the use of assistive technology (AT), unmet needs for AT, and examine correlates of use of memory aids and cognitive strategies among individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS).
  
  
  METHODS
  A cross-sectional study of 1,063 community dwelling adults with MS in Washington State. A self-report survey assessed use of AT as well as depression, fatigue, mobility, and other demographic and disease related variables.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Some 70% of respondents reported using memory strategies and 50.7% reported using electronic memory aids. The strongest correlate of use of electronic memory aids was endorsement of difficulties thinking (OR: 2.09, p < 0.001) though younger age, higher education, and report of higher fatigue were also significant. Fatigue (OR: 1.27, p < 0.001) and depression (OR: 0.89, p < 0.001) were highly associated with use of memory strategies. Subjects who were older, unemployed, more depressed, and have more mobility disability were less likely to use memory strategies.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Use of AT for memory is widespread and further research should be conducted on efficacy of AT. Many individuals who might be presumed to need AT for memory most (older, less educated, more disability) are least likely to report use. Healthcare providers are urged to ask about memory AT and make appropriate referrals.
authors.affiliation: Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195, USA. kjohnson@u.washington.edu
authors.forename: Kurt L
authors.initials: KL
authors.lastname: Johnson
authors.forename: Alyssa M
authors.initials: AM
authors.lastname: Bamer
authors.forename: Kathryn M
authors.initials: KM
authors.lastname: Yorkston
authors.forename: Dagmar
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Amtmann
mesh_terms: D000367:Age Factors; D003071:Cognition; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D003863:Depression / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology; D005221:Fatigue / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008569:Memory Disorders / Q000209:etiology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D008875:Middle Aged; D051346:Mobility Limitation; D009103:Multiple Sclerosis / Q000150:complications / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D010146:Pain / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology; D012656:Self-Help Devices; D012737:Sex Factors; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors