What is Executive Function Disorder (EFD)?
Executive function disorder (EFD) is commonly found in patients with neurological disorders.
Executive functions are those cognitive abilities that help you plan, pay attention, complete tasks, and remember directions. These functions help you go from the planning stages of a task to completion.
A person with executive function disorder has difficulty with goal-oriented behavior.
It is important to learn how to deal with executive dysfunction in order to successfully complete everyday tasks, especially in a school or work environment.
Executive Function Disorder is usually a result of another disorder such as ADHD, autism, or a traumatic brain injury. EFD describes the range of cognitive, behavioral and emotional problems a person experiences when dealing with executive dysfunction.
A person with EFD has trouble staying organized and keeping track of things. It’s is difficult for them to manage their time and plan and carry out an event or project.
Click here to learn more about executive function disorder
Executive Function Disorder Treatment Options
So what some of the common treatment options for executive function disorder?
1. Therapy
Occupational therapy is one treatment option to consider.
An OT might suggest breaking tasks into smaller pieces, writing notecards to compensate for memory deficits, and making lists of tasks to complete and check off as they’re done.
2. Behavior Modification
A reward system is sometimes put in place to keep children with EFD on track. For example, if the child forgets to turn in homework, the teacher can make a chart and place a sticker on each day that the child hands in homework. After five stickers, the child gets a prize.
Another option is a daily report sent home. The parents can then decide on a reward at home after so many good reports. Parents can try this at home with things like keeping a bedroom clean or completing homework without prompting for example.
3. Accommodations
In a school setting, a school psychologist can recommend a number of accommodations. If the child is in a public school and eligible for special education, an Individualized Education Program (IEP) will be developed.
Accommodations include things like giving extra time for test-taking and homework assignments and projects, planner checks, special seating in the classroom (front of the room, for example), ability to use notes or outlines for assistance, and various types of technology.
4. Medications
Even though some EFD treatments and medications may help slow the disease, over time symptoms will likely continue to get worse. Fortunately, with proper diagnosis and treatment, it’s possible to diminish many causes of executive function. Common medications used for the treatment of EFD include stimulants, antidepressants, and antipsychotic medications.
To learn more about EFD, check out the guide in Medical News Today
Strategy for Treating Executive Function Disorder
After you research different types of executive function disorder treatment options, you need to seek professional help. Find a doctor who has experience in working with patients afflicted with EFD. You need to find someone who has knowledge and experience in this area.
Doctors who specialize in EFD can help develop customized strategies specifically tailored for individuals based on their needs. Finally, there are also many local executive function disorder support groups available.