Supportive Conversational Strategies for Persons with Aphasia and Their Significant Others

Abstract

Introduction: The spectrum of useful and not-so-useful supportive conversational strategies (SCSs) employed by significant others (SOs) of person with aphasia (PWA) is wide and variable. The SCS might be influenced by many factors such as perceptions, attitudes, and awareness about the handicap. Modeling and training of SCS might help in modifying perceptions, attitudes, use, and its practices that hinder progress of PWA. Knowledge and understanding of these factors among SOs and PWA will enhance rehabilitation strategies. The objective of the study is to develop SCS-based questionnaire and to examine the type of SCS used by SOs of PWA in the daily communication situation to support and stimulate PWA as a home-based practice program. Methods: The study design was qualitative descriptive trail, involving semi-structured interview of SOs of PWA. Questionnaire was developed and validated. Responses of 33 SOs were obtained and analyzed on this questionnaire. The mean age of PWA was 52.6 years; 85.5% of SOs were a cohabiting partner. Results:Responses to the questionnaire regarding the structure and content showed the agreement levels ranged from 90% (Md. 4.5) to 98% (Md. 5.0). The correlation coefficients varied from 0.57 to 0.94. The overall reliability was high (r = 0.90, P < 0.001). SCS based on verbal or nonverbal mode is exclusively used by SOs for comparing reading and writing mode. The later modes are not utilized by approximately 60% SO. Poor SCS use might hinder expected functional communication. Conclusion: Investigation related to SCS would help to plan tailor-made family-oriented home training program and to understand its efficacy in aphasia.