Self-reported feedback in ICT-delivered aphasia rehabilitation: a literature review

Abstract

Purpose

Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) can provide an option for the delivery of intensive aphasia rehabilitation but the users’ views (i.e., People with Aphasia) must be considered to ensure satisfaction, motivation and adherence with this mode of rehabilitation. The aim of this literature review is to provide a critical overview of studies where feedback was elicited from participants about their experiences with ICT-delivered aphasia rehabilitation.

Methods

A systematic search using six electronic databases was conducted in July 2015 and updated in May 2019. Studies of synchronous telerehabilitation and interventions targeting compensatory strategies were excluded from the review. Studies retrieved were screened for eligibility and information was extracted on the characteristics of each study, methods of data collection and study outcomes.

Results

Seventeen studies met the inclusion criteria including studies with quantitative, qualitative and mixed-methods research designs. The studies employed a variety of data collection methods, examining a number of ICT-delivered aphasia rehabilitation activities and the findings investigated aspects of feasibility, usability and acceptance of this mode of rehabilitation.

Conclusions

The findings indicate ICT-delivered aphasia rehabilitation is considered an acceptable mode of rehabilitation by people with aphasia who reported generally positive feedback, though variation among personal perspectives and experience is noted. There is currently no consensus measure of self-reported feedback in ICT-delivered aphasia rehabilitation.

IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION

• ICT-delivered aphasia rehabilitation may provide an acceptable mode of rehabilitation for people with aphasia.

• Exploring self-reported feedback from people with aphasia engaging in ICT-delivered aphasia rehabilitation will provide insights into their experiences of this mode of rehabilitation.

• This information may help to guide clinicians when collaboratively planning and monitoring ICT-delivered aphasia rehabilitation.

• Currently there is no consensus measure of self-reported feedback for people with aphasia engaging in ICT-delivered aphasia rehabilitation.

Keywords:

• Aphasia
• rehabilitation
• Information and Communication Technology
• self-reported feedback

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank Ms Tara Kearns who completed the data extraction and quality review of the first 10 studies included in the review.

Disclosure statement

The authors report no conflict of interest. This research was funded by the Health Research Board in the Republic of Ireland as part of a Health Professionals Fellowship Grant awarded in 2016.