Developing and Testing New Language and Communication Assessment Tools for Adults with Aphasia

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to develop and validate new tools to better assess language and communication abilities in people with aphasia, a condition caused by stroke that affects communication. Traditional assessments mainly focus on linguistic tasks, but they often overlook everyday communication skills, such as the use of gestures and factors like motivation and attention, which are important for setting personalized treatment goals. The study emphasizes the need for a more interactive and comprehensive approach that includes evaluating both the individuals and caregivers perceptions of communication effectiveness. The study involves an observational approach using a conversational method in speech-language rehabilitation. This method focuses on improving communication in real-life situations by practicing natural, interactive conversations that include verbal and non-verbal cues. Assessments will be conducted within these everyday contexts to help guide treatment planning more effectively. Participants will be evaluated over a 36-month period, with researchers measuring communicative efficacy as the primary outcome. The study will involve intensive neurorehabilitation patients or outpatients diagnosed with language and communication disorders after stroke. Various assessments, including questionnaires for participants and caregivers, will be used to understand communication skills, participation in daily life, and the use of gestures. This comprehensive evaluation aims to support better communication therapy planning and monitoring over time.

Development and Validation of Language and Communication Assessment Scales