Abstract TP402: Developing Evidenced Based Practice: A Proposal for an Impairment-Based Rehabilitation Program Using Computerized Therapy

Background: According to the National Aphasic Association (n.d.), about 25-45% of stroke survivors experience aphasia. Treatments for aphasia have several forms focusing on restoring impaired spoken language, written expression, or reading comprehension (American Speech Language Hearing Association, n.d.). Impairment-based therapy (IBT) has demonstrated to be an approach focusing on in-home training using specific linguistic forms which utilize technology (Galletta & Barrett, 2014). Clinical Question/PICOT: In adult patients over 18 years of age, who recently experienced a stroke and diagnosed with aphasia, will the use of impairment- based therapy compared to standard treatment provide shorter recovery times from aphasia? Summary of Evidence: Eight studies included in the review of the evidence. Six randomized control trials, one meta-analysis, and one case study. Five articles supported evidence reflecting that impairment-based therapy can be useful in stroke recovery for aphasic patients. Two studies focused on the magnitude of impairment-based treatment in the community setting is clinically significant in the promotion of continuous therapy with a clinician. The case study investigated the effects of language therapy in first four months with aphasia. The evidence identified supports the proposal of using IBT with aphasic patients rehabilitation through computerized sessions in the community or home setting. Results: When incorporating the ACE Star Model, identifying issues relevant to the language and speech competence of aphasic patients as well as filling gaps in their existing communication therapy is essential. By developing an evidence-based practice (EBP) team comprised of clinicians , executive leaders and healthcare facilities, an evaluation of practice issues relevant to aphasic patients can occur. A pilot for practice change focusing on language and cognitive therapy tasks, a structured, personalized therapy will be provided using the digital application platform, Constant Therapy. Conclusion: By assessing preliminary results from the evidence-based project, this can be a benefit to patients with lifestyle intentions to improve cognitive, language and communication disorders associated with aphasia.