Empowering Independence: How Occupational Therapists Are Using MyGuide Cognitive Software to Maximize Daily Function
As occupational therapists, we know that true progress isn’t just measured in clinical outcomes — it’s seen in everyday wins: making breakfast safely, following a daily routine, remembering medications, or navigating a bus route independently. That’s where MyGuide, a customizable cognitive support software, steps in as a powerful tool in our therapeutic toolbox.
What Is MyGuide?
MyGuide is a digital platform designed to support individuals with cognitive challenges by offering step-by-step prompts through videos, images, text, and audio. The software runs on tablets and smartphones, providing real-time support for clients wherever and whenever they need it.
Why OTs Love It
Occupational therapists are increasingly turning to MyGuide to enhance therapy carryover and promote greater independence in the home and community. Here's how it aligns with OT practice:
1. Personalized Routines and Task Support
MyGuide allows therapists (or clients and caregivers) to build custom guides tailored to the individual’s goals — think hygiene routines, cooking steps, or community navigation. This client-centered customization supports occupational engagement and promotes success in meaningful daily activities.
2. Promotes Executive Functioning
The app scaffolds skills like sequencing, task initiation, and sustained attention — core elements of executive function. For clients with TBI, stroke, autism, dementia, or intellectual disabilities, MyGuide helps reduce cognitive load and anxiety while building confidence in task completion.
3. Data-Driven Progress Monitoring
MyGuide includes built-in tracking, so OTs can monitor when and how guides are used. This helps inform treatment plans, track compliance, and demonstrate progress toward goals in a measurable way — perfect for documentation and communication with interdisciplinary teams.
4. Supports Remote and Hybrid Therapy Models
Whether you're working in home health, schools, outpatient, or supported living, MyGuide bridges the gap between therapy sessions and everyday life. It’s a scalable, easy-to-deploy solution that makes therapy accessible beyond the clinic walls.
Clinical Applications
Pediatric clients use it for morning routines, backpack checks, and social stories.
Adults with brain injury or stroke use it for medication reminders, home management, and transportation cues.
Clients with dementia use it for familiar voice prompts to support memory and orientation.
The OT Takeaway
MyGuide isn’t just a reminder app — it’s a cognitive companion that promotes engagement, autonomy, and dignity. It complements therapeutic goals by empowering clients to live fuller, more independent lives. As OTs, we are facilitators of function—and with tools like MyGuide, we can extend our impact well beyond the therapy hour.