Speech-language pathologists’ perspectives on quality of life in rehabilitation for acquired communication disorders

Abstract

The quality of life (QoL) concept has become increasingly important, shifting the focus of health care to the effects of the condition on the general well-being of an individual, rather than the impairment itself. In the Speech-Language Therapy (SLT) field, several studies have reported the consequences of acquired communication disorders (ACDs) on the individual's QoL, indicating the importance of it being a central part of SLT. Furthermore, several studies reported Speech-Language Pathologists’ (SLPs) perspectives on QoL in the rehabilitation of ACDs, particularly aphasia, in different countries. In Malta, no study has explored this so far. Hence, the purpose of this study was to explore Maltese SLPs' knowledge and understanding of QoL in ACDs, which include aphasia, acquired motor speech disorders (MSDs) and cognitive-communication disorder (CCD). This research also aimed to report on the training needs of local SLPs, including barriers faced in practice and how clinicians include QoL in their assessment and intervention with ACDs. A mixed-methods approach was applied, collecting data through an online questionnaire, completed by 40 clinicians and four interviews. Maltese SLPs defined QoL in terms of well-being, happiness and satisfaction, giving most importance to the communication domain in practice with ACDs. Despite results implying a need for further training on QoL at the pre-qualification level and identifying several barriers that limit its inclusion, SLPs gave considerable importance to clients' QoL on overall management. Results show that Maltese SLPs are including QoL considerations in their practice, several even obtaining further post-qualification training on the subject. Findings recognise the need to identify available QoL measures and to facilitate access to such tools, increasing Maltese clinicians' knowledge and confidence in using existing measures. Findings also implicate a need for further awareness and education on the subject.