Communication Strategies Used in Primary Progressive Aphasia: A Scoping Review

Primary progressive aphasia describes a group of language-led dementias that affects an individual's ability to speak, comprehend, read and write. While post-stroke aphasia has been the subject of extensive research, particularly in the domain of communication strategies, the same level of research interest has not been observed in PPA. This is indicative of a significant knowledge gap regarding effective communication strategies in PPA. The present review aims to outline the current research evidence related to the range of communication strategies employed within PPA individuals and their effectiveness. A series of studies were considered, encompassing patients diagnosed with PPA, their spouses and/or other communication partners, provided that data on the utilization and training of communication strategies was addressed. A total of 26 non-experimental and experimental studies met the inclusion criteria. Communication strategies retrieved varied from verbal, to non-verbal, environmental modification strategies and partner adaptation strategies. The findings demonstrate that assistive augmented communication strategies have a positive impact on communication interactions. Furthermore, the multiple use of different modalities ensures the optimal conveyance of messages. Consequently, the degree of independence exhibited by the subjects increases, as does their overall quality of life.