Communication Bridge: A pilot feasibility study of Internet-based speech-language therapy for individuals with progressive aphasia

Introduction: Individuals with aphasia symptoms due to neurodegenerative dementia are under-referred for speech-language therapy (SLT) services. We sought to determine the feasibility of utilizing telepractice, via Internet video conferencing, to connect an individual with progressive aphasia due to dementia to a speech-language pathologist for treatment.

Methods: Participants received an Initial Evaluation, 8 person-centered Internet-based SLT sessions and two Post-Therapy Evaluations. The feasibility of providing web-based SLT, strategies used and their compliance, functional gains and the duration of benefit were assessed.

Results: Thirty-four participants from 21 states and Canada were enrolled. Thirty-one participants completed the 6-month Evaluation. Speech-language pathologist-assessed and self-reported functional gains, as well as increased confidence in communication were documented at 2-months and maintained at 6-months post-enrollment.

Discussion: Internet-based SLT using person-centered interventions provides a feasible model for delivering care to individuals with dementia and mild/moderate aphasia symptoms who have an engaged care-partner and prior familiarity with a computer.