The aim of the study was to describe how people with
intellectual disabilities experienced their participation in everyday activities when using cognitive
assistive devices. The purpose of cognitive
assistive devices is to compensate for cognitive problems, to enhance independence when performing activities and to support decision making in daily life. Nine persons, 17-37 years old, with mild
intellectual disability were selected by purposive sampling. Data collection was conducted by semi-structured interviews. The results showed that participation in everyday activities increased when using cognitive
assistive devices. The persons experienced having more control and health benefits using cognitive
assistive devices in daily activities. There were participation restrictions related to attitudes from the social network towards participation, and attitudes towards the use of cognitive
assistive devices from the persons themselves and from the social network. Occupational therapists should be aware of the social factors that may influence a client's participation in everyday activities when using cognitive
assistive devices. There is a need for more research with clients with
intellectual disabilities and further research concerning long-time use of cognitive
assistive devices.