SMS Text Messages as a Prosthetic Aid in the Cognitive Rehabilitation of Schizophrenia
By Pijenborg, G.H.M.; Withaar, F.K.; Evans, J.J.; van den Bosch, R.J.; Brouwer, W.H.; Rehabilitation Psychology, Vol. 52, No. 2, pp. 236-240Publication Date: May 2007
Study conducted to evaluate the efficacy of short message service (SMS) text messages as a compensatory aid to improve independence among people diagnosed with schizophrenia and cognitive disabilities. Eight men who were previously diagnosed with schizophrenia participated in the study, as all of the participants demonstrated memory or planning problems during activities of daily living. Microsoft Access was used to set up a schedule of reminders for each participant. A conventional computer, a plug-in, and a cell phone were used to transmit the text messages. Each participant used a Nokia 8310 cellular phone, and was assigned a series of text prompts related to his or her main daily activities. Each message corresponded to a set of daily goals set up for the participants by the researchers. Five of the eight participants completed the entire trial, as four were successful in carrying out daily activities when receiving prompts. The authors conclude that SMS text messages can be effective in compensating for cognitive impairment in some, but not all individuals with schizophrenia. Implications for future research are discussed.
Published by: Educational Publishing Foundation (Website:http://www.apa.org/publications/)
This publication is included in the library of the National Rehabilitation Information Center (NARIC), accession number J52466
