Should a 37-year-old with ADHD use AirTags and trackers?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 37-year-old male with ADHD and lose stuff constantly, especially keys and my wallet. It sounds dumb, but it genuinely affects my mornings and stress levels because I am always doing last-minute searches before work. I keep seeing people recommend AirTags and trackers, and now I am wondering if that is actually a helpful ADHD strategy or just another gadget I will forget about.

Do people with ADHD find trackers genuinely useful for everyday organization?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Thank you so much for sharing your query with me.

Trackers or AirTags (compact bluetooth tracking devices) are helpful gadgets for people with ADHD who frequently misplace or lose items. These trackers do not help in reducing the symptoms of ADHD; however, they are useful in managing forgetting habits and improving day-to-day organization.

You can attach these trackers to commonly misplaced items such as keys, wallets, bags, or other valuables. This can make locating them much easier and save time during busy routines. However, it is also important to remember that excessive reliance on trackers may gradually reduce your efforts to develop personal organizational habits.

Before switching to trackers, I recommend making a short list (three to four items only) of frequently lost items. Write them on small paper and keep them in a pocket. Make a habit of reading the list before leaving the place.

To reduce stress and manage morning time, make a must-have short list at night and keep these items together. If this strategy does not succeed, then you can go for trackers.

I hope it helped with the query.

Please let me know if you have any more questions on your mind.

I would be happy to guide you.

Thank you.