Carers in post-stroke aphasia: a scoping review of interventions and outcomes beyond communication partner training

Abstract

Purpose Carers of people with aphasia face unique challenges. Research has demonstrated that these carers have a higher burden of care and more negative stroke-related outcomes in comparison to carers of stroke survivors without aphasia. The aim of this scoping review was to map the range of interventions for carers other than communication partner training and to examine their outcomes. Materials and methods We conducted a scoping review on this topic. Results Twenty studies were included. Most studies were case series with four randomised control trials. Both quantitative and qualitative approaches were used. Most studies occurred during the long-term phase of care. Two interventions had only carers as participants. Interventions were comprised of different combinations of intervention components including psychoeducation, skill-building, and support. There was high variability on who led the interventions, the format, and the dose/schedule. Twenty-eight different outcome measures for carers and dyads were used across various domains with overall positive outcomes post-intervention. Conclusions This review uncovered a wide range of formats, dosages, and outcome measures in interventions for carers. Encouragingly, the majority of these interventions included psychoeducation, skill-building, and support components. While most studies were case series, there are promising interventions that have the potential to enhance carer wellbeing.