Good Systems · public information library

How can I help someone when they are always losing track of time?

People come here to understand why something in everyday life feels harder, different or more costly than it should — and what might make it work better.

Short answer

Use visible time cues and agreed reminders, not surveillance.

What this can look like

They may be fully absorbed in one thing and not notice the time needed to leave, eat or change plans.

Why it can happen

Time can be harder to notice while someone is absorbed. A leave-by alarm, countdown or shared transition point can help when it is chosen together.

What might help

Agree on one cue before it matters: a leave-by alarm, a countdown, or a quick “ten minutes left” message.

What the research helps explain

Australian ADHD guidance and international consensus evidence describe ADHD as affecting everyday functioning for some people, including attention, planning, memory, time and follow-through. Practical support can still be useful without deciding that ADHD is the explanation.

What can vary

Stress, sleep, health, environment, task design and preference can create similar patterns. Do not diagnose someone from a pattern or give support they have not asked for.

For this situation

For you, agree what cue is useful and what feels intrusive before using one.

More info and original sources

Poko summarises the relevance of public original sources and links out for anyone who wants to read more.