Focus, Focus, Focus

Concentration is essential in today's fast-paced world. Do you or a loved one have difficulty staying on task or find your mind wandering more than it should? Did you know speech therapy could help?

Speech therapy specializes in optimizing cognitive functioning including attention. Attention deficits can be linked to difficulties remembering, organizing, and solving problems within home/work/school tasks.

A quick overview of the interrelated attention types:

• Sustained attention = Focus on a task for an extended period without being distracted (e.g. Read a book for a half an hour).

• Selective attention = Focus on a task while ignoring competing distractions (e.g. Complete a work task while ignoring people talking in the background).

• Alternating attention = Ability to switch focus between multiple tasks (e.g. Read a recipe while cooking a meal).

• Divided attention = Ability to complete two or more tasks at a time (e.g. Talk on the phone while grocery shopping).

• Working memory = Ability to hold onto information in your head, process information, and perform task. Closely related to your ability to control attention.

• Suppression = Ability to control impulsive responses.

Speech therapy works on improving attention abilities through exercises as well as improving client’s ability to use strategies or environmental modifications when focus is still difficult.

Let’s talk about some of the key strategies you can start implementing today to make everyday tasks easier:

1.     Environmental modifications. Reduce distractions - turn off the TV/music, close the door, remove phones/tablets. Create a clean and clear workspace free of clutter. Conversely, if you work better with background noise, find a place that has the right amount.

2.     Environmental cues. Develop systems of alarms and reminders. Write down steps to a goal and cross them off as you go.

3.     Best time. Identify the time of day you are most focused and do the most demanding tasks during that time.

4.     Perform one task at a time.

5.     Take short breaks between tasks.

6.     Break down tasks into smaller manageable parts and set aside time to complete each part of the task until the entire task is complete.

7.     Write down thoughts/ideas you want to focus on later so you can remain focused on the task at hand.

8.     Create a reward or incentive for finishing a task.

9.     Self-advocate. Make others aware of your difficulties and request conversational partners slow down or provide more concise directions.

10.  Talk to yourself: Say things out loud. Your dialogue will help keep you on task and from wondering thoughts (“I am feeding the dog. Okay next, I need to pack the diaper bag. That’s done, now I am getting my work computer, etc.”).

11.  Active listening during conversations. Ask open ended questions to encourage further responses, summarize and reflect what was said, listen to understand rather than to respond.

Elevate your performance and unlock your potential by enhancing your attention with speech therapy. Contact Guardian Speech Therapy now to start your journey towards greater success in everyday tasks and beyond.