“There are endless areas that they can use it for”: speech-language pathologist perspectives of technology support for aphasia self-management

Abstract

Background Aphasia is a debilitating acquired language disorder that often persists as a chronic condition. However, long-term support options are scarce, necessitating the consideration of alternative approaches. Chronic condition self-management approaches, which aim to build self-efficacy and empower people to take responsibility for the day-to-day management of their health condition, may benefit people with aphasia (PwA). Technology is widely used in chronic condition self-management and investigation is required to determine whether it could play a role in aphasia self-management. Objective This study aimed to explore speech-language pathologist (SLP) perspectives on the potential use of technology to support aphasia self-management. Methods A qualitative study was conducted with 15 SLPs using semi-structured interviews. Qualitative content analysis was applied to verbatim transcripts to identify codes, categories, and sub-themes which were developed into themes. Results Three themes were identified: (1) technology supports holistic aphasia self-management by providing additional avenues for service delivery, overall communication, and learning opportunities thus enhancing independence and life participation; (2) SLP and communication partner (CP) assistance can support PwA to use technology for aphasia self-management; (3) considerations and potential barriers to PwA use of technology for aphasia self-management. Conclusions Technology can support aphasia self-management by expanding service delivery options, allowing for increased frequency and intensity of therapy practise, and facilitating communication and participation. Personal, professional, and organizational barriers should be addressed in the development of technology-enabled aphasia self-management approaches. SLPs and CPs can offer PwA assistance with technology but may themselves need additional support. Solutions for identified barriers should be considered, such as providing training in the use of technology and implementing aphasia-friendly modifications. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION Self-management approaches are being explored in the area of aphasia management as a means of offering a holistic, sustainable intervention option that meets the long-term needs of people with aphasia. A range of technology-based resources are currently used in chronic condition self-management and in aphasia therapy, and there are many possibilities for the use of technology in aphasia self-management approaches. Speech-language pathologists identified that technology could facilitate aphasia self-management by expanding service delivery options (e.g., real-time and asynchronous telepractice), enabling increased frequency and intensity of therapy through providing a means of independent practise, offering options for augmentative alternative communication, and enhancing life participation by supporting social communication and daily tasks., Speech-language pathologists are interested in using technology for aphasia self-management; however, barriers related to organizational policies, individual experience and confidence using technology, and technology itself must be addressed.