A randomized controlled trial of prospective memory rehabilitation in adults with traumatic brain injury

To examine the efficacy of compensatory prospective memory training, preceded by self-awareness training for adults with traumatic brain injury. Randomized controlled trial with 4 intervention groups: (i) self-awareness plus compensatory prospective memory training; (ii) self-awareness training plus active control; (iii) active control plus compensatory prospective memory training; and (iv) active control only. Forty-five rehabilitation patients with moderate-severe traumatic brain injury living in the community. Four groups of participants completed an 8-session individual intervention programme with pre- and post-assessment by a blind assessor on a standardized test of prospective memory, actual strategy use, relatives' ratings of prospective memory failure, and level of psychosocial reintegration. Larger changes in prospective memory test score and strategy use were found in groups with compensatory prospective memory training compared with those groups without. The results provide evidence that prospective memory can be improved in patients with traumatic brain injury using a compensatory approach in a relatively short duration and low intensity intervention.