Assessment and rehabilitation of acquired communication disorders in aboriginal and Torres strait islander adults with stroke or traumatic brain injury: a retrospective chart review

CONCLUSIONS: Informal approaches to assess ACDs were commonly employed which may be because they are perceived to be more culturally appropriate. Clinical guidelines for stroke and TBI should accommodate the diversity of cultures and languages. Better consideration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communication styles and incorporation of these into SLP ACD management approaches may facilitate accurate diagnosis and culturally safe rehabilitation services.Implications for RehabilitationInformal approaches for assessment and intervention of ACDs, that incorporate yarning and salient tasks, are likely to be more culturally appropriate and safe for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.More flexibility and guidance in the use of culturally and linguistically appropriate alternative assessment approaches are required in the National stroke guidelines for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.The adoption of enhanced models of culturally secure ACD service provision, that incorporate frequent SLP engagement with an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander support person during assessment and rehabilitation, are needed.There is an imperative for health professionals to actively account for culture and language difference in rehabilitation practices to ensure Indigenous peoples worldwide receive equitable and culturally-responsive services.PMID:35343342 | DOI:10.1080/09638288.2022.2055160

Source: Disability and Rehabilitation - March 28, 2022 Category: Rehabilitation Authors: Frances Cochrane Samantha Siyambalapitiya Petrea Cornwell Source Type: research