The effect of mobile application-based technology on post-stroke aphasia: a systematic review

Background: Enhancing speech-language therapy remains the most effective strategy for improving post-stroke aphasia, However, conventional face-to-face interventions often lack the necessary therapeutic intensity. In recent years, mobile application-based speech-language therapy has emerged progressively, offering new opportunities for independent rehabilitation among aphasic patients. This review aims to evaluate the impact of mobile application-based interventions on post-stroke aphasic. Methods: By conducting a systematic search across five databases (PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, CINAHL, and Scopus), we identified and included studies that investigated the utilization of mobile application-based technologies (such as computers, iPads, etc.) for treating post-stroke aphasia. Results: This study included 15 research investigations, including 10 randomized controlled trials (RCTs), four self-controlled studies and one cross-over experimental design study. Among these, eight studies demonstrated the efficacy of mobile application-based therapy in enhancing overall language functionality for post-stroke aphasia patients, three studies highlighted its potential for improving communication skills, three studies observed its positive impact on spontaneous speech expression. Moreover, four studies indicated its effectiveness in enhancing naming abilities, two studies underscored the positive influence of mobile application-based interventions on the quality of life for individuals with aphasia. Six studies noted that speech improvement effects were maintained during the follow-up period. Conclusion: The results of this review demonstrate the potential of mobile application-based interventions for improving speech-language function in individuals with aphasia. However, further high-quality research is needed to establish their effects across different domains and to delve into the comparative advantages of various treatment approaches.