Abstract
We conducted intensive speech therapy for chronic aphasic patients over a short period and evaluated both methods and efficacy. We conducted individualized therapy for 40 minutes twice a day for 10 days. Content of therapy included: 1) speech that specified one theme, 2) functional therapy established for each case, and 3) Promoting Aphasics' Communicative Effectiveness (PACE) . Moreover, communication exercises with nurses were also conducted. We examined efficacy by the Standard Language Test of Aphasia (SLTA) , SLTA-Sub Test (naming part), Token Test, Syntax Test of Aphasia, and a questionnaire administered to the patient's family about communication activities of daily living before and after treatment. Significant improvements were found in all patients after treatment except for SLTA auditory composition. Follow-up evaluations were conducted in 3 cases. Results were maintained or improved in 5 out of 6 items for 3 months. These data suggest that language function and communication skills can be improved in chronic aphasic patients by intensive treatment based on assessment of their language function.
