A resource that aims to make appropriate computerised aphasia treatment software easier to access

Petheram, Brian and Woodward, Sarah (2012) A resource that aims to make appropriate computerised aphasia treatment software easier to access. [Clinical Aphasiology Paper]

PDF 176-316-1-RV_(Petheram_Woodward).pdf Download (253kB)

Abstract

Computer based treatment is likely to play an increasing role in the rehabilitation of aphasia (Katz 2010). This is reflected in the number of enquiries about what software is suitable and where it can be found, that are being received by the authors via their organisations. These enquiries come not just from clinicians, but also from people with aphasia and from people who care for or about them. Answering these enquiries is by no means straightforward; there is an ever increasing number of programs available (we have found over 40) and each of these programs may or may not be suitable for a particular individual’s needs. Also the response appropriate for a clinician may not be helpful for a lay person or someone with aphasia. Whilst the authors believe that all treatment should be supervised and managed by a qualified clinician (and the resource we have developed clearly states this), there are some people who for whatever reason either have no access to clinical help or prefer to undertake some treatment on their own behalf. We know from direct experience that some of these people are spending money on software that does not help them and are unaware of software that could be more effective. We have also had feedback from clinicians that they are unable to continually scan for new software and do not have the time to evaluate all the products that are available, and so are concerned that they may be missing out on useful tools.

Actions (login required)

View Item