Exploring the Impact of Aphasia Severity on Employment, Social Participation, and Quality of Life

BackgroundThe primary challenge faced by patients with aphasia is their difficulties in communicating, which likely contributes to lower employment rates, decreased social participation, and a decline in quality of life. Surprisingly, few studies have investigated the relationship between aphasia severity and these outcomes, particularly employment status. In this study, we addressed this gap by examining these socio-occupational outcomes as well as quality of life in individuals with chronic aphasia. MethodsA cohort of 136 individuals with chronic aphasia following cerebrovascular diseases was recruited and investigated in a cross-sectional study. A multiple logistic regression model was used for employment status, and multiple linear regression models were used for both social participation levels and quality of life. Explanatory variables included both individuals functions, such as aphasia severity, non-linguistic cognitive function, apathy levels, and mobility, as well as levels of social environmental barriers. ResultsAphasia severity had a significant negative impact on two outcomes: employment status and quality of life. Additionally, social environmental barriers negatively affected quality of life. Lower mobility, male gender, and older age were related to reduced social participation levels. Employment status was not related to social participation levels nor quality of life. ConclusionThis study found that the severity of aphasia significantly impacts individuals occupational engagement, as well as their quality of life. Our findings shed light on potential treatment options during acute phases of stroke, linguistic rehabilitation, and occupational support for individuals with aphasia.