Quality of Life in Aphasia

In the field of aphasia rehabilitation, the World Health Organization’s ICF model (International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health), has helped expand professionals’ perspectives from direct language-focused interventions to communication- and interaction-based methods, as well as more holistic, psychosocial approaches. Also, current research evidence shows that disordered language and diminished language use (activity), in addition to participation restrictions has a negative impact on the quality of life and well-being as perceived by the person with aphasia. This special issue provides an understanding of how speech and language therapists perceive the concept of quality of life in their patients and how they integrate quality of life issues into therapy. It is a comprehensive overview that includes information, in an international context, on available assessment methods in clinical practice and on future research needs. This is stimulating reading with new knowledge and ideas especially meant for speech and language therapists working in the field of aphasia rehabilitation.