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Q: Since my brain injury I have been having difficulty keeping and remembering appointments. What should I do?
Luckily, we live in a society where planners, smart phones and post-it notes are used to keep track of important information. After a brain injury, the same strategies can be used without fear of being different from everyone else. Practicing these skills over time will not only improve organization and memory, but will also help the brain to heal. Here are some tips to get you started:
- Keep an appointment book/planner. There are many sizes and styles, both paper and electronic. Try a few different types to see what works best for you.
- Your planner should include a "to do" check list. Make sure it includes a priority list to keep you focused on things that are important to you.
- Keep track of your accomplishments! Check off what you have completed.
- Use your cell phone. Take advantage of built-in features such as alarms for appointments, contact lists, etc.
- Vision a challenge? Use assistive technology such as a voice recorder, or voice-output software, to help you keep track of important information.
- Keep information in one place. Create an activity binder that includes sections for different activities you're involved in, such as: work/school, medical, transportation, rehabilitation, etc. Information will be easier to find if it is organized, categorized and in one location.
Getting organized can be overwhelming. If you are having trouble figuring out where to start, ask for help from a rehabilitation professional, or from friends and family members. Developing a system that works for you may take time, but is well worth the investment!
— Arlene Hughes, B.A. and Cindy Jerome
Bancroft Brain Injury Services