Petra Privošnik, Vanja Riccarda Kiswarday

Abstract
To support increased independence among adolescents with
impaired executive functions, especially those with autism
and/or ADHD, we developed, tested, and evaluated a pilot
mobile application. Based on theoretical foundations, our own
research, and expert recommendations, the app offers visual and
time-based structuring of routines, tracking progress through a
Pomodoro1 timer and a reward system. The application was
tested over 14 days by 12 adolescents and 2 young adults (11
male, 3 female): 6 with autism only, 1 with ADHD only, and 7
with both, using their own smartphones or tablets. After the trial
users rated its usability, benefits, and motivational impact very
positively, with special praise for the innovative real-time visual
timer (calendar) that improves time awareness. They also
suggested additional features, such as audio alerts outside the
app, integration with other digital tools, and various forms of
rewards. This analysis of the pilot version calls for further
research with more users facing executive function challenges,
including those transitioning to independent living for the first
time while studying or working, and longer-term monitoring of
app usage to assess its effectiveness.