Current issues in the use of volunteers in aphasia therapy: an Australian perspective

Abstract

The use of volunteers in aphasia therapy has always been controversial. Studies examining the efficacy of therapeutic programmes provided by speech pathologists and volunteers have not always identified differences between the two groups of therapy provider. This paper examines previous efficacy papers from a methodological perspective and discusses the preliminary outcomes of two volunteer programmes conducted in Australia. It discusses the use of volunteers as an adjunct to therapy provided by speech pathologists, specifically addressing the role of volunteers and speech pathologists in minimising disability and handicap in the aphasic individuals following stroke.