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

OBJECTIVE To examine the efficacy of compensatory prospective memory training, preceded by self-awareness training for adults with traumatic brain injury. DESIGN 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. SUBJECTS Forty-five rehabilitation patients with moderate-severe traumatic brain injury living in the community. METHODS 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. RESULTS Larger changes in prospective memory test score and strategy use were found in groups with compensatory prospective memory training compared with those groups without. CONCLUSION 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.