Memory Training Occupational Therapy

Memory and Cognitive Training Occupational Therapy

Memory and cognitive function play an essential role in how we live our lives. From remembering how to ride a bike or learning how to operate a new washing machine, we use short and long-term memories every day.

Memory loss or cognitive issues occur when the brain experiences damage through injury, illness or disease. While sometimes people may feel hopeless about the potential to improve memory and cognitive function after experiencing loss, research shows improvement is possible with the right occupational therapy.

What is the difference between long-term and short-term memory?

Short-term memory is the information we hold onto in an active, readily-available way. We use short-term memory in situations like recalling what we have heard or seen in recent times. Short-term memories can last for a few minutes or only a few seconds. Long-term memory is the information we hold onto for extended periods of time. We use long-term memories to remember where we live, the names of people, and core daily tasks and chores. Long-term memories can last for days, weeks, or years.

What is memory and cognitive training?

Training involves working with a specialised memory training occupational therapist (OT) or cognitive training occupational therapist (OT) to develop and enhance a person’s functions. This can include introducing small and practical steps like writing lists, creating checklists, using a daily planner and developing a daily routine, as well as introducing more long-term management strategies like colour-coding and labelling items around the house and using smartphone reminders. There are also specific memory strategies such as association and mental imagery that can assist with improving memory. All treatments offered at Klint are developed to help you improve your daily living skills and are individually adapted to suit a person’s age, abilities, existing condition and goals. Contact our team to learn more about memory and cognitive training, treatment options, and NDIS funding support.

Common strategies

There are many ways a person can work to improve their memory and cognitive function. Klint’s experienced memory training OTs and Cognitive Training OTs offer strategies that include:

Image matching pictures to develop visual memory skills
Word matching to develop verbal memory skills
Item categorising to develop working memory skills
Task sequencing activities to develop working memory
Physical exercise to improve overall brain and body health and strengthen brain networks

Your OT will be able to determine the level of difficulty and tailor all exercises to your specific needs and goals.

Our Memory Training OTs and Cognitive Training OTs offer:

Assessment and development of individualised goal-oriented programs
Improving and adapting environmental strategies
Memory-strengthening activities
Training of specific abilities
Training in social abilities
Metacognitive training
Compensatory techniques
Advice on overall lifestyle improvements aimed at improving short and long-term memory health

Our team of Memory Training OTs and Cognitive Training OTs will also develop strategies to help optimise your ability to store information input, retain information and retrieve information.