Brain tumor patients often face difficulties with memory and attention. The tumor itself can cause these challenges, as well as treatments like chemotherapy and radiation. Patients may struggle to remember daily tasks, stay organized, and focus on conversations or activities. Fortunately, some strategies and tools can help manage difficulties with memory and attention, making day-to-day life easier.

How Memory and Attention Impact Daily Life

Memory and attention are important thinking skills for daily tasks. Memory is the ability to store and recall information, which we use for tasks like remembering names, recalling directions, or following a recipe. For example, when cooking, memory helps us remember the steps we’ve completed and what comes next. Attention is the ability to focus on one task without getting distracted. This skill is essential for activities like having a conversation, driving, or reading a book. For brain tumor survivors, both of these skills can be affected, making it harder to complete daily tasks. Using strategies to support memory and attention can help survivors stay independent and feel more confident in their abilities.

Effective Strategies for Memory and Attention

Cognitive Rehabilitation:

Cognitive retraining is a type of therapy that helps improve thinking skills. It involves practicing exercises that help strengthen working memory, attention, and thinking speed. Occupational therapists use these programs to help people practice skills they need every day. Cognitive retraining might use online programs, phone apps, or hands-on activities that are practiced often to improve memory and focus (Campbell, Polo, & Fleischer, 2023).

Another part of cognitive retraining includes cognitive stimulation activities. These are activities that keep the brain active, like puzzles, memory games, or hobbies like drawing or reading. Doing these activities often helps improve brain health, which can support memory and attention skills (Binarelli et al., 2021).

Therapists also teach memory strategies that make it easier to remember things. Some strategies include visualization (picturing steps of a task in your mind) and association (linking new information with something you already know). Practicing these strategies regularly helps survivors improve their ability to remember and retrieve information (American Occupational Therapy Association [AOTA], 2019).

External Memory and Attention Aids:
 Memory and attention aids are tools that provide reminders and reduce the need to remember everything independently. These tools include items like notebooks, daily checklists, and visual calendars. For example, a memory notebook can be used to track daily activities, medications, and appointments, allowing survivors to focus on completing tasks without worrying about forgetting. One study found that using a memory notebook helped brain injury survivors stay organized and complete daily routines more easily (Sandler & Harris, 1991). Another helpful strategy is creating a “landing pad” or designated area where essential items like a phone, wallet, and keys are placed every time you come home. This designated spot helps you find these items quickly when you need them and reduces the mental effort of remembering where you last left them.

Technology to Support Independence:
Technology, like smartphone apps or digital assistants (such as Alexa or Google), can be very helpful for setting reminders and creating schedules. These devices let survivors set reminders for important tasks, so they don’t have to rely solely on memory. For people managing complex schedules or medications, this extra layer of support can make daily life more manageable and increase their independence.

Structured Routines and Positive Reinforcement:
 A structured routine, with tasks done in the same order each day, can help survivors who struggle with memory and attention. When there is a set routine, staying focused is easier, and the need to remember each step of the routine is reduced. Caregivers and family members can offer “positive reinforcement”—encouragement or small rewards—to make it easier for survivors to follow their routines independently (Schwartz, 1994).

Support from Family and Caregivers:
Family and caregivers play an important role in supporting memory and attention. Simple tools like color-coded reminders or electronic alarms can help survivors remember appointments, medication times, or other essential tasks. Caregivers can also provide gentle prompts or reminders when needed. Their support encourages survivors to stay organized and helps them stick with routines, creating a positive and structured environment.

Moving Forward with Memory and Attention Support

Using strategies like structured cognitive retraining programs, memory aids, and routines can help brain tumor survivors manage challenges with memory and attention, allowing survivors to be more independent in their daily lives. With practice, these strategies can make a significant difference, enhancing independence and boosting confidence.

References

American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). (2019). Cognition, cognitive rehabilitation, and occupational performance. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 73, S2, 7312410010. https://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2019.73S10041

Binarelli, G., Joly, F., Tron, L., Lefevre Arbogast, S., & Lange, M. (2021). Management of cancer-related cognitive impairment: A systematic review of computerized cognitive stimulation and computerized physical activity.

Campbell, C., Polo, K. M., & Fleischer, A. (2023). Systematic Review Brief—Interventions to address cancer-related cognitive impairment (2018–2022). American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 77, 7710393320. https://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2023.77S10032

Sandler, A. B., & Harris, J. L. (1991). Use of external memory aids with a head-injured patient. The American Journal of Occupational Therapy.

Schwartz, S. M. (1994). Cognitive rehabilitation in the home setting: Case studies with adults with traumatic brain injuries.