How to Help the Person with Information Processing Impairment
Recognise there is a problem and be patient.
Have realistic expectations of the person’s ability.
Do not overload the person with too many tasks at once.
Break tasks down into simple stages.
Give short, clear instructions.
Give verbal information in short, clear ‘bite sized’ pieces, repeating as necessary.
Do not give too much information too quickly.
Give the person the time they need to register, process and respond to information, instructions or a situation. Do not jump in to assist too quickly.
Do not expect the person to manage busy, social situations without support.
If social situations (e.g. noisy ward, pub or café) are too difficult, make sure there is somewhere the person can go for a break from the stress these situations may cause.
Reduce unnecessary distractions, these add to the overall processing demands.
Impairment of Information Processing may cause significant fatigue as the person tries to manage the problems it causes. Please be sensitive to this.
Be calm and reassuring at all times.
Please refer to a Clinical Neuropsychologist, Clinical Psychologist, Occupational Therapist and/or Speech and Language Therapist who specialise in Neurorehabilitation.