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Using reminders and automation when executive function is low

How to build reminders that trigger a real action, recover from missed alerts and keep essential routines working offline.

Last reviewed: 6 July 2026 · UK guidance

In brief

A reminder helps only when it arrives at a time and place where the action can happen. “Pay bill” may be ignored; “open water app, check balance and pay from bills account” gives a starting point.

Use automation for stable, understood tasks and keep review points for variable amounts, medication changes or disputed accounts. Too many alerts become noise. Build a missed-reminder route so one bad day does not collapse the system.

Attach the cue to the action

Include the verb, object and location or link. Time reminders for when the necessary document, money or medication is available. Use location cues for tasks tied to a place, but do not rely on tracking if it feels intrusive or drains the device.

Use layers for critical tasks

For medication, appointments or priority bills, combine a first reminder, a follow-up and a visible backup such as a pill organiser or calendar. Agree when another person should be alerted and obtain consent.

Automate stable payments carefully

Direct debits and standing orders reduce memory demand, but check variable bills, account balance and payment dates. Keep an alert before large payments and review after price changes. Do not automate an unaffordable amount simply to avoid contact.

Create a missed-alert recovery list

Once a day or week, check a short “not completed” view. Reschedule rather than creating multiple duplicates. If a deadline passed, contact the organisation immediately and record the new action.

Keep essential information offline

Write medication, emergency contacts, key due dates and account recovery somewhere accessible without the phone. Test what happens when the battery, internet or calendar service fails.

Set up one supported reminder

Use with someone helping you.

I need a reminder for [task]. The action is [exact steps], it can be completed at [time/place], and the first alert should be [timing]. If I do not mark it complete by [time], the backup is [second alert/person/offline note]. Please help me test it once and remove any duplicate notifications.

A practical checklist

  • Write reminders as actions, not topics.
  • Layer only safety-critical tasks.
  • Review automated payments after changes.
  • Keep an offline recovery list.

Check the current information

These are the most relevant official or specialist places to confirm live rules, availability and application details.

Budgeting and money guidance — MoneyHelper

moneyhelper.org.uk

Open official information
Securing your devices — National Cyber Security Centre

ncsc.gov.uk

Open official information
Good Things Foundation

goodthingsfoundation.org

Open official information

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