JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Aphasia is a communication disorder affecting more than a third of stroke survivors. Computerized speech and language therapy (CSLT) is a complex intervention requiring computer software, speech and language therapists, volunteers or therapy assistants, as well as self-managed practice from the person with aphasia. CSLT was found to improve word-finding, a common symptom of aphasia, in a multicenter randomized controlled trial (Big CACTUS).

Objective:

To provide a detailed description of the CSLT intervention delivered in the Big CACTUS trial and identify the active ingredients of the intervention directly associated with improved word-finding for people with aphasia.

Methods:

We conducted a multiple methods study within the context of a randomized controlled trial. In study 1, qualitative interviews explored key informants' understanding of the CSLT intervention, how the components interacted and how they could be measured. Qualitative data were transcribed verbatim and analyzed thematically. Qualitative findings informed the process measures collected as part of a process evaluation of the CSLT intervention delivered in the Big CACTUS trial. In study 2, quantitative analyses explored the relationship between intervention process measures (length of computer therapy access; therapists’ knowledge of CSLT; degree of rationale for CSLT tailoring; time spent using the software to practice: 1) cued confrontation naming, 2) non-cued naming and 3) using words in functional sentences) and change in word-finding ability over a six-month intervention period.

Results:

Qualitative interviews were conducted with seven CSLT approach experts. Thematic analysis identified four overarching components of the CSLT approach: 1) the StepByStep© software, 2) therapy set-up: tailoring and personalizing, 3) regular independent practice and 4) support and monitoring. Quantitative analyses included process and outcome data from 83 participants randomized to the intervention arm of the Big CACTUS trial. The process measures found to be directly associated with improved word-finding ability were therapists providing a thorough rationale for tailoring the computerized therapy exercises and the amount of time the person with aphasia spent using the computer software to practice using words in functional sentences.

Conclusions:

The qualitative exploration of the CSLT approach provided a detailed description of the components, theories and mechanisms underpinning the intervention and facilitated the identification of process measures to be collected in the Big CACTUS trial. Quantitative analysis furthered our understanding about which components of the intervention are associated with clinical improvement. In order to optimize the benefits of using the CSLT approach for word-finding, therapists are advised to pay particular attention to the active ingredients of the intervention: tailoring the therapy exercises based on the individual’s specific language difficulties, and encouraging people with aphasia to practice the exercises focused on saying words in functional sentences. Clinical Trial: ISRCTN 68798818