Aphasia is a higher brain dysfunction that
affects the production or comprehension of speech and the ability to read or
write. The purpose of this research is to establish support guidelines based on
a questionnaire survey and a language activity analysis of rehabilitation
training so that volunteers can more easily assist disabled persons with
aphasia. The focus of this study was the non-profit community-based intervention
group Yokohama Aphasia Partner Group, which consists of members with aphasia,
their families, speech-language-and-hearing therapists, psychiatric social
workers, and volunteers. The following results were obtained. (1) Members with
aphasia participate in the Partner Group because they can meet others with
aphasia on a regular basis as well as participate in the aphasia rehabilitation
program with the recovery of language functions. In addition to medical
treatment, the community-based support, which improves the environment and
other life contextual factors, is important for rehabilitation. (2) An
individual with aphasia shows different language actions, and so an
individually different support system in accordance with language activity is
necessary.
[1]
National Aphasia Association, Definition.
http://www.aphasia.org/aphasia-definitions/
[2]
Howea, Linda E. Worralla and Louise M. H. Hicksona, (2008) Interviews with People with Aphasia: Environmental Factors that Influence Their Community Participation, Aphasiology, 22, 1092-1120.
http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/02687030701640941
[3]
Aftonomos, L.B., Appelbaum, J.S. and Steele, R.D. (1999) Improving Outcomes for Persons with Aphasia in Advanced Community-Based Treatment Programs. Stroke, 30, 1370-1379.
http://dx.doi.org/10.1161/01.STR.30.7.1370
[4]
World Health Organization, International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF).
http://www.who.int/classifications/icf/icf_more/en/
[5]
Yokohama Shitsugosho Tomono-kai (Yokohama Aphasia Partner Group in Yokohama City). (In Japanese)
http://www.kounan-portal.com/3935/report.html
[6]
30th Anniversary Record of Yokohama Aphasia Partner Group (2015). (In Japanese)
