Book Club Experiences, Engagement, and Reading Support Use by People With Aphasia

Background People with chronic aphasia often exhibit a decrease in social engagement and reading ability that negatively influences quality of life. Book clubs can provide a supportive environment that facilitates both socialization and reading. However, limited data exist examining the use of book clubs for individuals with chronic aphasia. Purpose The purpose of this qualitative descriptive study was to describe the experiences, engagement, and reading supports used by people with aphasia participating for the 1st time in a book club. Method and Procedure Ten people with chronic aphasia and co-occurring reading deficits engaged in 7 book club sessions. Participants first completed a questionnaire about pre- and poststroke reading experiences. Individualized interviews with participants during and post-book club explored the experiences, preferences, and reading comprehension strategies used within the structure of the book club. Results Three main categories of findings emerged from the data analysis: (a) perceived changes in attitudes regarding reading and club participation post-book club, (b) variations in use of reading supports and strategies across participants, and (c) perceived social benefits of the book club. Conclusion The current study provides evidence that people with varying types and severities of chronic aphasia and reading comprehension challenges can successfully increase reading and social engagement through book club participation. The results from this study highlight the need to provide evidence to support services that extend beyond standard rehabilitation protocols and identify engaging ways to facilitate active participation in functional reading activities for people with chronic aphasia.