Efficacy of Speech Output Technologies in Interventions for Persons With Aphasia: A Scoping Review
Aphasiology
Rayer, K., Chavers, T., et al. (2022).
Aphasiology, 37(11), 1861-1883.
This systematic review explores the effects of speech generating devices (SGD) for people with aphasia.
Not stated
1990 to January 2021
Peer-reviewed studies with experimental designs
16
<div>SGD-based AAC interventions demonstrated positive effects on functional communication, symbol identification, symbol combination, and navigation of SGDs in adults with aphasia secondary to acquired brain injury (Inconclusive Evidence [2 studies], Suggestive Evidence [2 studies], Preponderant Evidence [2 studies] and Conclusive Evidence [3 studies]). <br><br>However, due an overall paucity of research and heterogeneity across studies, the authors of this review could not make any strong statements about the specific effects of SGD-based interventions for people with aphasia. Future research should include experimental controls and investigate the maintenance and generalization of learned skills.</div>
<div>Mixed findings were noted for device acceptance (i.e., a willingness to integrate the device into daily life) of SGDs for adults with aphasia secondary to acquired brain injury. </div>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #333333;">Two case studies demonstrated rare to no acceptance. </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #333333;">One case study reported that the participant voiced interest in using the SGD outside of an intervention setting. </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #333333;">One group-based study with 28 participants reported a 70% acceptance rate. </span></li>
</ul>
<div><span style="color: #333333;">Limitations to this review include small sample sizes, an overall lack of available research, and heterogeneity between studies. Additional research is warranted.</span></div>
