Perceptions of three groups of interlocutors of the effects of aphasia on communication: an exploratory study

Abstract

Aphasia has an eåect on both the transactional functions (e.g. exchanging information) and the interactional functions (e.g. establishing relationships) of communication. The goal of the present study was to explore the perceptions of physicians, spouses and adolescents of the eåect of aphasia on both functions of communication and to identify their compensatory strategies. This study con®rms: (1) that the interactional function of communication and its subsequent breakdown in aphasia should not be minimised ; and (2) that the perceived eåect of aphasia on this function is in¯uenced by the interlocutor. Family members perceived a greater eåect of aphasia on interactional functions while physicians were generally preoccupied with the transactional functions. The importance of addressing both functions of communication as well as the importance of intervening at the interlocutor level to reduce the situations of handicap is stressed.

Communication changes and SLP services according to significant others of persons with aphasia

“…Bouchard-Lamothe et al (1999) also found this difference between female and male spouses of PwAs. They reported that female spouses felt obliged to take on an increased responsibility for conversations, including the role of translator, a feeling that was not expressed by male caregivers.…”

“…To minimise such misunderstandings it is important to gain a better understanding of how SOs experience the communicative difficulties of the PwA. According to previous research, SOs of PwAs experience a loss of quality and quantity of conversations (e.g., a reduced ability to engage in deep conversations with the PwA) (Bouchard-Lamothe et al, 1999). Communication becomes arduous and a source of stress, irritation, and frustration (Le Dorze & Brassard, 1995;Michallet, Tétreault, & Le Dorze, 2003).…”

“…The SOs change their communicative behaviour because of aphasia. For instance, they speak more slowly, use simple words and gestures, and repeat until the PwA understands (Bouchard-Lamothe et al, 1999;Le Dorze et al, 1996;Michallet et al, 2003). In addition they pay more attention than before to what the PwA says and take on an increased communicative responsibility to help and protect the PwA from upsetting experiences (Bouchard-Lamothe et al, 1999;Le Dorze & Brassard, 1995).…”

Parkinson’s Disease and Communication : Intelligibility, Interaction and Participation

“…In a broad sense, interaction can be defined as "an occasion when two or more people or things communicate with or react to each other" (Cambridge Dictionary, 2024). In the context of human communication, interaction includes not only the transferring of information but also the expression of social relations and personal attitudes (Bouchard-Lamothe et al, 1999;Brown & Yule, 1983).…”