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In HABIT we've kept our Memory Support System (aka the MSS, aka the planner, aka the calendar) in paper form since the beginning. Back then there wasn't much else to choose from, but we've kept the MSS in paper format for a number of reasons that we've highlighted before. However, technology has different potential benefits, such as the ability to set reminders, being more user friendly for some patients with tremor or other handwriting issues, and our patients (and some of you in the comments section of that recent blog post) have expressed a desire for an electronic tool.
Recently, we've begun partnering with Neuroglee Therapeutics to develop an electronic application of the MSS based on our experiences in HABIT. The Neuroglee tool will also incorporate other aspects of the HABIT program, such as wellness action plans related to nutrition, cognitive exercise, and physical exercise. The product isn't here yet but we are closely collaborating with them as the product is developed. Neuroglee's hope is for completion by the end of the year. I want to share with you some press releases about the project so far:
Don't worry - our paper version of the MSS isn't going anywhere. This collaboration and digitization will hopefully offer our patients more options in the future.
What do you think? If you had the choice of a paper or digital planner system, what would you choose? Why?
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Is an electronic version of the paper tool available?
Not yet. That's what we are hoping to do!
Paper as it is more tactile and I seem to remember things better when I write things down and think about them.
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2 ReactionsI would definitely choose the digital, as long as it included action plans and notes. I have a shared electronic calendar with my husband in addition to the MSS and I have to enter calendar items on both and then sync weekly (if not more) to ensure I haven’t missed anything. I love the notes and action items section of the MSS and wouldn’t want to loose that functionality.
We would definitely be interested in trying the digital version when it's available. We understand the value of the hand written version and continue to use it but we also use a joint digital calendar & reminders as well.
Hi @cathypeirson That is really great to hear. I too really like having the to dos and notes all coordinated.
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1 ReactionOverall, it is really great as a HABIT director to hear these opinions and comments. I think we, the directors, feel there probably is a role for having both options available to our patients. It will be interesting to better understand who benefits from what format most in addition to hearing patient preferences!
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1 ReactionCan I purchase a HABIT memory book?
Not yet! We are working with Mayo Clinic to develop a way for interested individuals to purchase. I'm sure we'll create a blog post about it when that happens. I'm curious--would you be interested in also attending a zoom class that shares some of our recommendations for HOW to use the book if we offered it? Or would an electronic "how to" manual be a preference? We've talked before here about the book itself often isn't enough--many people also need a bit of coaching on how to use it as well. So, for anyone who reads this, I'd been interested in your feedback about a way to offer that coaching. https://connect.mayoclinic.org/blog/living-with-mild-cognitive-impairment-mci/newsfeed-post/having-a-planner-versus-being-trained-on-the-planner/
I would be very interested in both of these methods.