Difficulties with sustained attention are very common following brain injury. Sustained attention refers to the ability to maintain concentration, without distraction, on a particular task in order to carry it out e.g. navigate a route, read a book chapter, follow a conversation, complete an action. Attention must be maintained for the period of time required to complete the task or, if unavoidably distracted, the same degree of attention will then be refocussed on the task. Impairment of sustained attention may affect the person’s ability to:
- Complete everyday tasks.
- Follow conversation.
- Follow instructions.
- Read a book or newspaper article.
- Carry out work.
- Follow and understand a film or T.V. programme.
- Maintain vigilance e.g. whilst driving and working at repetitive tasks.
- Manage work, educational and social situations.
