Vocational and social outcomes of adults with chronic aphasia

Vocational and social outcomes of rehabilitation, such as employment, Social Integration, and life satisfaction, are critical determinants of the usefulness of rehabilitation. The purpose of this study was to describe the employment status, Social Integration, and perceived life satisfaction of adults with chronic aphasia 2 years after discharge from an intensive treatment program. Among the 20 survey respondents, 62% of those who had been working prior to aphasia onset were also working at the time of follow-up. Those who were working before but not after onset had higher Home Integration scores. There was a relatively large perceived change in communication from clinic discharge to the 2-year follow-up. Eighty-five percent of the respondents indicated a positive life satisfaction rating. There was a significant positive relationship between Home Integration and life satisfaction ratings. The results are discussed in relation to other reports of employment and social outcomes for stroke and aphasia.

As a result of this activity, the participant will be able to: (1) identify factors that may contribute to the successful return to work for adults with chronic aphasia; (2) describe the vocational and social outcomes of a select group of adults with chronic aphasia after participation in an intensive treatment program; and (3) discuss future need areas in understanding vocational and social participation for adults with chronic aphasia after intervention.