Alternative family education programming for adults with chronic aphasia

When this article was written, coauthor Lisa Bardach was Clinical Speech-Language Pathologist, Communicative Disorders Clinic, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Abstract

Serious psychological consequences and limited social access are significant effects of chronic aphasia due to stroke. There appears to be a need for ongoing family education and counseling throughout the chronic stage in order to address the psychosocial needs of these individuals and their families. We describe an alternative approach to family education for chronically aphasic individuals. Six-month follow-up results suggest that this educational program has a positive impact on social behaviors, understanding of aphasia, and family communication patterns. The importance of developing and providing educational programs to the chronically impaired beyond the point of formal rehabilitation is discussed.

Key words:

• aphasia
• family education
• stroke rehabilitation

Notes

When this article was written, coauthor Lisa Bardach was Clinical Speech-Language Pathologist, Communicative Disorders Clinic, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan.