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Aphasia centers in North America: a survey
Nina Simmons-Mackie1, Audrey L Holland
1Department of Communication Sciences & Disorders, Southeastern Louisiana University, Hammond, Louisiana, USA. nmackie@selu.edu
Seminars in Speech and Language
|October 5, 2011
Summary
Aphasia centers offer unique community-focused support beyond traditional rehabilitation. This study surveyed 33 centers to define their characteristics and services, highlighting their holistic approach to improving quality of life for individuals with aphasia.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Speech-Language Pathology
- Rehabilitation Science
Background:
- Growing trend of dedicated programs for people with aphasia and their families, termed 'aphasia centers'.
- These centers reportedly differ from traditional medically based aphasia rehabilitation.
- Lack of a directory and clear definition for aphasia centers hinders understanding and accessibility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and describe aphasia centers in the United States and Canada.
- To establish a definition and understanding of what constitutes an aphasia center.
- To characterize the unique aspects of these programs.
Main Methods:
- An online survey (37 questions) was administered via SurveyMonkey.
- An introductory letter was distributed electronically to relevant listservs and mailing lists.
- 33 survey responses from self-identified aphasia centers were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Descriptive data compiled on demographics, mission, policies, assessments, logistics, staffing, marketing, funding, and services.
- Qualitative analysis revealed key themes: distinct services, community, holistic quality of life focus, psychosocial well-being, participation, social support, group interaction, and service variety/intensity.
- Aphasia centers emphasize community and holistic well-being over traditional medical rehabilitation.
Conclusions:
- Aphasia centers represent a distinct model of care, differing from traditional rehabilitation.
- These centers foster community, social support, and a focus on quality of life.
- Further research and a formal directory are needed to support the growth and accessibility of aphasia centers.
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