Article

Memory problems that interfere with everyday living are frequently reported in
children who have sustained acquired brain injury (ABI), but their nature and
rehabilitation is under-researched. This study aimed to (1) determine
neuropsychological correlates of everyday memory deficits in children with ABI,
and (2) investigate the effectiveness of a newly developed programme for their
rehabilitation. We assessed everyday memory, verbal memory, attention and
behaviour in 15 children with ABI. The children attended the everyday memory
rehabilitation programme: six weekly sessions that involved diary training,
self-instruction training and case examples. At the onset we found that everyday
memory problems were related to impaired attention and behavioural difficulties.
On completion of the programme there was a significant increase in children's
abilities to perform daily routines that demanded recall of information and
events. In addition, children used diaries more frequently. Moreover, significant
secondary gains were found in attention and mood (anxiety and depression). In conclusion, the results provided preliminary evidence that our six week programme
could be effective in reducing everyday memory difficulties and improving
psychological well-being in children with ABI.

Langue : ANGLAIS