Facilitating End-of-Life Interaction Between Patients With Severe Communication Impairment and Their Families

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this report is to promote conversation among medical speech-language pathologists (SLPs) about their role in facilitating family–patient interaction involving patients who acutely encounter the end-of-life (EOL) phase and have severe communication impairment. Case Report We provide self-reflections from our own clinical practice, pertinent literature review, and medical chart review of a relevant patient to serve as a catalyst for such discussion. Reflections We share a preliminary handout containing strategies that SLPs could provide family members of patients who have encountered an EOL phase and have severe communication impairment (e.g., global aphasia) and reduced alertness level. Clinical Implications SLPs can play an important role in facilitating EOL patient–family interaction and alleviate suffering even when patients have severe communication impairment.