Tracking changes in conversation during and after communication partner training: an exploratory study

Background: While communication partner training (CPT) is recommended in the treatment of aphasia, more research on the long-term effect of CPT is needed to enhance the knowledge base about its effects. Aim: To measure the effects both during training and maintenance phases of a CPT offered to a spouse of a man with aphasia by using quantitative and qualitative procedures. Method: One couple participated in 8 sessions of CPT. Conversations were recorded at baseline, throughout the intervention and three months post-intervention. The intervention targeted the type of questions asked by the spouse and the use of extended pauses in conversation. We defined these behaviors and counted their occurrences using a software. Visual analysis and standard deviation band analysis were performed. Also, the spouse participated in a semi-structured interview before and after intervention, which was analysed qualitatively. Outcomes & Results: Positive changes were observed during intervention - more open-ended questions were produced, and the number of pauses increased - but these improvements were not maintained three months later. The spouse reported that CPT had changed their daily communication and that it provided support for her. Conclusions & Implications: The quantitative results gave precise and specific information on how the spouse responded to CPT overtime and that could lead to suggestions regarding the content of the intervention in order to promote maintenance in future studies. The qualitative analysis reflected the broader impact of CPT on the couple's communication.