The use of book clubs as a therapy method for individuals with aphasia

This paper explores the idea of book clubs as treatment for individuals with aphasia. Before that discussion can begin, explanations of the field of speech-language pathology, evidence based practice, and the background of aphasia must be given. The speech pathologist is the main professional working with individuals with aphasia to help them regain communication and learn compensatory strategies for lost skills. Evidence based practice, researching in order to find support for treatment methods, is a crucial aspect of many health care related professions. Aphasia is a language disorder resulting from damage to the left hemisphere of the brain that can affect numerous language skills. Several programs are currently using aphasia book clubs including the Aphasia Center of California, the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, and speech pathologist Jennifer Triandafilou's private practice. By analyzing these programs, it can be found that book clubs have many advantages for the individuals with aphasia. Improvements and suggestions are also given at the end of the paper in order to strengthen future aphasia book clubs. Overall, this paper is meant to inform the audience about aphasia and support the treatment method of book clubs for individuals with aphasia.