Article

This study introduces an intervention that enabled a man (LH) with acquired
topographical disorientation (TD) to travel independently without fear of getting
lost. Adapting an errorless method, LH learned to use a smartphone to find his
routes accurately and reliably. A time-series design (A1-B1-A2-B2) was used: In
all phases, LH was given a printed map on which city locations were indicated. He
had to walk to the indicated locations while naturalistic outcomes were recorded.
In Phases A, he navigated without his smartphone, and in Phases B, with it. In
Phases A, LH made numerous surplus direction changes, and openly expressed his
frustration. In Phases B, he did not have surplus direction changes and could
calmly find his routes. Before intervention, LH and his wife were frustrated and
worried about his way-finding. They rated their confidence in his navigational
ability and his actual ability in way-finding to various locations as low. After
intervention, they were more confident that LH could travel by himself without
getting lost and rated his ability as much higher for various scenarios. As a
consequence of intervention LH gained greater independence and quality of life.

Langue : ANGLAIS