Ai1: A Cognitive Prosthetic to Support Independence in Executive Functioning for Soldiers with TBI

Very little research and development has been done to address the unique assistive technology needs of individuals with traumatic brain injuries. In response to the immediate need for executive functioning supports for soldiers with TBI/PTST, an all-in-one (Ai1) system is proposed to provide independent access to message recording, personal schedule maintenance and cellular telephones for soldiers with TBI. The system will be developed on a Pocket PC with a customizable multimedia interface that can be configured to meet the needs of soldiers exhibiting different symptoms and severity of symptoms of TBI/PTST. It will 1) allow users with TBI to create and retrieve voice recordings to aid in information retention and recall, 2) provide a straightforward interface for creating and reviewing scheduled appointments and events, along with simplified review of scheduled activities, and 3) an accessible multimedia cell phone that will provide intuitive access to incoming/outgoing calls and essential features. This will be accomplished by development of a working Phase I prototype system that will undergo usability testing by both soldiers and citizens with traumatic brain injuries. The importance of this project is underscored by the immediacy of the need to provide independent functioning supports for soldiers with TBI/PTST with practical tools that can provide needed benefits within a relatively short research cycle.