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A practical framework for understanding compensatory behaviour in people with organic memory impairment
Authors:
Wilson, B.A. & Watson, P.C.
Reference:
Memory, 4, 465-486
Year of publication:
1996
CBU number:
3394
Abstract:
This paper describes a framework for understanding compensatory behaviour in people with organic memory impairment. It builds on a theoretical framework proposed by Bäckman & Dickson (1992), who distinguish four steps in the evolution of compensatory behaviour: (a) origins; (b) mechanisms; (c) forms and (d) consequences. Although this framework is useful in understanding compensation in neurologically impaired adults, other factors need to be taken into account. Using data from a long term follow-up study it is shown that age, severity of memory impairment and additional cognitive deficits are important variables in predicting independence and use of compensations several years post rehabilitation. The paper concludes with a consideration of how the framework might be used in future studies.