Studying Brain Changes and Speech Improvement After Intensive Rehabilitation for Adults Aged 18-75 with Chronic Aphasia or Apraxia of Speech

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating the short- and long-term effects of an intensive speech-language pathology program combined with physiotherapy on aphasia and apraxia of speech AOS in thirty people with chronic stroke. The study aims to assess changes in speech, language, communication, and brain structure and function using standardized speech-language tests and advanced brain imaging methods like voxel-based morphometry and resting state functional connectivity. The goal is to understand how intensive rehabilitation affects neuroplasticity and daily communication abilities in people with these chronic conditions. Participants receive a Multimodal Intensive Rehabilitation program for Aphasia and Apraxia of Speech MIRAA, an intensive comprehensive aphasia program that includes at least three hours of speech-language training daily over ten days, alongside physical therapy. The therapy is individualized based on participant goals set with a team of speech-language pathologists, physiotherapists, and neurologists. The program features individual therapy, group sessions, and computer-based activities, and includes education for participants and their families about communication and neuroplasticity. During the study, speech-language pathologists conduct evaluations before treatment, immediately after, and again about 16 weeks later, using various speech and communication tests recorded on video and audio for detailed analysis. Brain changes are monitored through imaging techniques focused on language and cognitive processing areas. Researchers measure improvements in language, speech motor planning, communication participation, and quality of life. The total participation duration includes intensive treatment plus follow-up assessments to track lasting effects.

Changes in Neuroplasticity Following Intensive Rehabilitation of Aphasia and/or Apraxia of Speech