How does autism affect use of digital tools for organisation and reminders?

PostedDecember 23, 2025

UpdatedDecember 23, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Lucia Alvarez, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Digital tools such as reminder apps, planners, calendars and timers can be genuinely helpful for autistic people, especially where executive functioning differences make organisation harder. According to a recent systematic review published in PubMed (2025) the most effective tools are predictable, customisable and low in sensory load.

How autism shapes organisational needs

Autistic people may experience differences in planning, working memory and flexible thinking. A systematic review on assistive technologies for executive function (ASHA Evidence Maps) found that simple audio or visual prompts can support independence and task completion.

However, more complex goal-setting technologies show mixed results. Evidence from JMIR Mental Health (JMIR review) notes that cognitively demanding interfaces can reduce usefulness for some autistic people.

Sensory sensitivities and notification overwhelm

Many autistic people experience sensory sensitivities that affect how they use technology. Leeds Autism AIM notes that sudden alerts, cluttered screens or high-contrast visuals can create digital overwhelm (Leeds Autism AIM guide).

NHS-linked guidance from Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust recommends using visual supports and adjusting notification settings to reduce sensory load (LPT Autism Space).

The importance of accessible and predictable design

The NHS sets national digital accessibility standards, encouraging clear layouts, adjustable notifications and compatibility with assistive technologies. These principles are outlined in the NHS Digital Accessibility Standards (NHS England).

Predictability also supports daily functioning. The National Autistic Society highlights the value of planners, visual timetables and structured digital tools, emphasising that personal choice helps people find what suits their sensory and organisational needs best.

Common barriers

Common difficulties include:

notification fatigue

interfaces that feel complex or cluttered

overwhelming colours or motion

tools that don’t align with personal routines

A recent study in npj Digital Medicine emphasises the need for more user-centred design tailored to autistic adults (NPJ Digital Medicine).

What helps in practice?

Across NHS and charity guidance, the most effective strategies include:

customising alerts (volume, frequency, or using visuals instead of sound)

using icons, colour coding or simplified screens

keeping layouts predictable and low-clutter

integrating tools into existing routines

experimenting with different formats (visual, text, audio)

Some people find that combining digital tools with human support is helpful. Brain in Hand, a UK platform that blends digital prompts with real-time coaching, shows promising early results for confidence and planning.

Key takeaway

Many autistic people benefit from digital organisational tools, but the best experience comes from apps that minimise sensory overload, support executive functioning and offer strong customisation. Testing different tools can help individuals find the approach that best supports everyday routines.

Lucia Alvarez, MSc

Author

Lucia Alvarez is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience providing evidence-based therapy and psychological assessment to children, adolescents, and adults. Skilled in CBT, DBT, and other therapeutic interventions, she has worked in hospital, community, and residential care settings. Her expertise includes grief counseling, anxiety management, and resilience-building, with a strong focus on creating safe, supportive environments to improve mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.