Consumer perspectives on community aphasia groups: a narrative literature review in the context of psychological well-being

Abstract

Background: Community aphasia groups (CAGs) for people living with chronic aphasia are known to be efficacious for improving various aspects of communication and psychological functioning based on empirical quantitative evidence. However, the specific mechanisms and processes involved are not well understood and only a small number of groups exist. Further, there is a paucity of evidence on this topic from consumers, potentially limiting the development and uptake of these services. In order to proliferate and maintain groups of high quality, a deeper understanding of the potential mechanisms of positive outcomes is required.

Aims: The aim of this study was to investigate consumer (people with aphasia (PWA) and family member) experiences of CAGs within the qualitative literature in relation to the theoretical construct of psychological well-being.

Methods & Procedures: An extensive review of qualitative research relating to consumer views of CAGs was conducted in a systematic fashion. Study quality was evaluated using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme, and content was interpreted in the context of a theoretical model for psychological well-being.

Outcomes & Results: Eleven key studies and 35 secondary studies were found to include consumer perspectives of CAGs. The findings of the 11 key studies are presented as a narrative literature review. Overall, evidence suggests CAGs contribute positively to the psychological well-being of PWA and their caregivers. Outcomes relate to forming positive relations with others, purpose in life, environmental mastery, autonomy, personal growth, and self-acceptance. CAG characteristics and mechanisms proposed to mediate psychological well-being are discussed. However, the review is limited by a range of methodological issues in the literature.

Conclusions: In order to optimise CAGs in practice, clinicians should consider group characteristics and aim to manipulate the possible mechanisms underlying positive outcomes. Further research is needed to understand the long-term lived experience of CAGs members, including those currently under-represented in the literature.

Keywords:

• aphasia
• consumer
• community group
• psychological well-being
• group process
• qualitative

Additional information

Funding

The first and second authors are supported by a La Trobe University Post-Graduate Award. The third author is supported by a National Health and Medical Research Council Senior Research Fellowship. The fourth author is supported by an Australian Research Council Future Fellowship [FT100100446].