Mapping Primary Progressive Aphasia Best Practices to a Person-Centered Video Biopic

A stakeholder-engaged, collaboratively developed video biopic about the lived experience of primary progressive aphasia (PPA) was examined to assess its impact on graduate students' understanding of the lived experience of PPA and best practice principles in PPA.

Using a post-then-pre-design, 22 graduate students were surveyed after watching the biopic regarding their understanding of the neurological aspects of PPA and the lived experience of PPA. Additionally, they mapped the presence of Volkmer et al.'s (2023) PPA best practice principles within the biopic. Quantitative measures of central tendency, as well as qualitative measures, were used to analyze the data. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to identify themes related to understanding of the neurological and lived experience components of PPA prior to and after watching the biopic.

After viewing the biopic, participants identified significant changes in understanding both the neurological aspects of PPA and the lived experience of PPA. However, their reported understanding of the lived experience of PPA was more influenced, impactful, and relevant than the changes in their understanding of the neurological aspects. Students identified occurrence of all seven PPA best practice principles within the biopic.

Students reported significant changes in understanding prior to and following viewing the biopic. Video biopics may be an effective tool to support increased understanding of the lived experience of conditions, including PPA, and support increased awareness and application of evidence-based practices.