ABSTRACT
In this chapter the author highlights what she has found to be the best assistive technology tools and strategies to help people along the entire continuum of cognitive abilities. Cognition is made up of many brain functions that enable humans to pay attention, organize, remember, reason, and learn. As with communication issues, it is important to first differentially diagnose the aspects of cognition to sort out relative strengths and weaknesses. This process is especially difficult when individuals also have language-related challenges, as communication and cognition influence each other on many levels. The first part of cognitive therapy—improving specific skills—typically includes exercises to improve attention, concentration, memory, organization, perception, judgment, and problem-solving skills. The second component of cognitive training is learning to use strategies, compensatory techniques, and tools to cope with weaker areas. Learning to use these tools not only compensates for impaired ability, but also may help build the skill itself.
