Effects of Introducing the Bbrainklok as a Digital External Memory Aid on Prospective Memory, Apathy and Autonomy in Individuals with Korsakoff’s Syndrome

Sterre Smits,1,2 Erik Oudman,1,2 Mareike Altgassen,3 Lisa van Rijswijk,1,2 Albert Postma1,2 1Experimental Psychology, Utrecht University, Helmholtz Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands; 2Slingedael Korsakoff Center, Lelie Care Group, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; 3Department of Psychology, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, GermanyCorrespondence: Sterre Smits, Email [email protected]: Korsakoff’s syndrome (KS) is a neuropsychiatric disorder caused by severe thiamine deficiency resulting from malnutrition, typically as a consequence of structural alcohol abuse. It is characterized by profound cognitive and behavioral impairments, including deficits in prospective memory (PM), the ability to remember to perform an intended task, and high levels of apathy. These deficits significantly impact daily functioning and perceived autonomy.Methods: This study investigated the effects of introducing the Bbrainklok, an external digital memory aid, on PM performance, apathy and autonomy in individuals with KS. Sixteen individuals with KS or other alcohol-induced major cognitive disorder, residing in a long-term care facility, participated in a nine-week intervention study. Bayesian analyses compared a null hypothesis (no change) with two alternatives: early change (H1) and gradual change (H2).Results: Apathy levels decreased following the introduction of the Bbrainklok, while improvements in prospective memory performance were more variable across participants. Autonomy showed small and inconsistent changes over time, precluding firm conclusions regarding intervention-related effects. Importantly, the beneficial effects of the Bbrainklok appeared to be independent of cognitive functioning and baseline apathy, suggesting that the device is accessible even for individuals with lower cognitive or motivational capacity. Focus groups with care staff confirmed that the Bbrainklok was experienced as reliable, user-friendly, and helpful in providing daily structure. Participants themselves also generally reported a pleasant experience with the Bbrainklok reminders.Conclusion: Overall, the findings highlight the potential of a digital external memory aid, the Bbrainklok, as an accessible and user-friendly assistive technology to enhance structure and engagement in individuals with KS living in long-term care.Keywords: Korsakoff’s syndrome, prospective memory, apathy, autonomy, external memory aid