Conversation partner involvement

4.4 The person with aphasia and key conversation partners should be invited to contribute to the assessment.

Reference: N/A

NHMRC level of Evidence: GPP

Rationale: During assessment, the speech pathologist and client may learn a great deal from the opinions of key communication partners of the person with aphasia. These may include not only family members, but also friends, carers and other health professionals who communicate with the person with aphasia. It may also be useful to assess how these people act as conversation partners during this process.

Just as aphasia is considered a family problem, intervention may involve family solutions, but this requires assessments to be dynamic, transparent and relevant to all those affected by the aphasia. Keeping key conversation partners involved and informed throughout the assessment process can be helpful in building a holistic approach to intervention. Family, friends and carers can also provide important background information relating to the person with aphasia’s medical history and premorbid status.