Helping those with acquired brain injury maximise their technology use

A free online resource is helping people with acquired brain injury (ABI) consider assistive technology to plan, organise and remember everyday tasks. The resource was developed by Monash University researchers in collaboration with people with ABI and other experts.

Assistive technology, or ‘AT’, includes products a person might use, like a smartwatch or mobile phone, and services like allied health that help with product selection, setup, training and use.

Believed to be the first of its kind, My Technology Space is an accessible online resource that helps people think about using AT to support memory and thinking in activities after acquired brain injury.

Project leader Associate Professor Libby Callaway, from Monash University’s Rehabilitation, Ageing and Independent Living (RAIL) Research Centre and Occupational Therapy Department, said it could also be useful for people who experience other conditions that impact memory or thinking.

“My Technology Space offers information, resources and tools for both people with acquired brain injury and their families, as well as allied health professionals or other assistive technology advisors working with them,” Associate Professor Callaway said.

“Traditionally, people with acquired brain injury and their families rely on product marketing materials and user guides to consider the use of technology for cognitive support after brain injury. “My Technology Space takes the user through six steps in a process to think about their goals and needs, map out current and possible future supports they could use to help them to do everyday activities, and consider whether technology could be part of that solution.