PERSPECTIVES OF PERSONS WITH APHASIA, CAREGIVERS, AND SPEECH THERAPISTS TOWARD COVID-INDUCED CHANGES IN APHASIA SERVICES: A RETROSPECTIVE REPORT

Abstract

Aphasia is an acquired language disorder caused by damage in a specific area of the brain that controls language use and understanding. This retroactive report aimed to summarize the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on the lived experience of people with aphasia (PWA) and caregivers. Their perceptions of the quality and effectiveness of these services were compared with service providers (speech therapists). About half of the PWA received speech-and-language therapy during phase 1 of COVID-19 (first half of 2020), but this issue of missing therapy sessions improved in phase 2 (the third and fourth waves of infection between July 2020 and October 2021). The pandemic reduced PWA’s social interactions and increased negative emotions in PWA and caregivers. Most speech therapists only commenced telepractice after the first COVID-19 outbreak, but in-person sessions resumed in phase 2. While most service receivers were in favor of teletherapy, therapists identified limitations and recommended suggestions for future implementation.