Background: People with aphasia after stroke are more vulnerable to developing mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression, when compared to stroke survivors without aphasia. Presently, there is a dearth of quality research to support psychological treatments for this population. Current talk-based therapies may not be appropriate for people with moderate to severe aphasia after stroke.
Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of the co-designed “Kalmer” relaxation intervention as an inclusive treatment option for people with aphasia. Further, this study aimed to determine whether the intervention shows potential to reduce anxiety and depressive symptoms immediately after the intervention and at 3 and 6 month follow up.
Methods: 10 participants with aphasia after stroke completed relaxation training for five weeks via the video sharing platform, Vimeo. Carer rated measures of anxiety and depression were used to assess outcome, specifically the Behavioural Outcomes of Anxiety (BOA) and the Stroke Aphasic Depression Questionnaire (10 items) (SADQ-10). Baseline assessments were conducted once a week for four weeks prior to the intervention. The BOA and SADQH10 were also administered directly after the intervention and at 3 and 6 months post. Video analytics were collected. The reliable change index was used to determine intervention impact.
Results: Preliminary findings with respect to the efficacy of the intervention i.e., changes in symptoms of anxiety and depression will be reported.
Conclusion: It is hoped this technology-based intervention demonstrates potential to reduce anxiety and depressive symptoms and can be used as an accessible, and suitable treatment option for people with aphasia.