What You Need to Know If You Want to Run an Aphasia Camp

Aphasia camps are an emerging psychosocial approach focusing on re-engaging people with aphasia in recreational and social activities. Current research highlights the positive impacts of aphasia camps on both attendees (people with aphasia and their loved ones) and facilitators (student and professional volunteers). However, the characteristics and facilitation of camps remain unknown due to a paucity of published research.

The aim of this study was to explore the current scope of aphasia camps including their distribution, structure, and preparation requirements.

A mixed-method, cross-sectional exploratory survey was employed to facilitate collection of various camp characteristics. Quantitative data were analyzed via descriptive statistics, and qualitative data were analyzed via inductive content analysis.

Who: The respondents (N = 14) predominantly identified as allied health professionals (n = 12) and were representative of 10 camps. Camps were commonly affiliated with a university or association. Where: Camps were located in the United States (n = 5), Canada (n = 3), Australia (n = 1), and one cruise ship. All camps were held annually, with most having been operating between 10 and 15 years. How: Camp preparations tended to commence 10-12 months before the event. The camps were predominantly funded by the attendees, with half utilizing community grants, and no camps received government support. The typical camp ran over 3 days/two nights and had over 20 people with aphasia attend; however, the schedule was highly varied in structure and types of activities.

Aphasia camps are highly diverse in structure, operation, and activities. Further research is needed to investigate stakeholder experiences and sustainable implementation practices to continue promoting the development of aphasia camps around the world.

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.28764962.