Digital, co-created implementation of communication partner training programs for stroke, brain injury, and dementia: Past, present, and future.

Abstract

Purpose: Communication partner training is a recommended intervention for partners of people with acquired brain injury. In this paper we explore the past, present, and future of communication partner training (CPT) based on our 2023 Speech Pathology Australia national conference address.

Method: We focus on our research team's contributions, and highlight research knowledge across stroke, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and dementia. This work is anchored in the voice of people with communication disability. One partner in the CPT journey, Rosey Morrow, co-authors this paper.

Result: The CPT evidence base for acquired neurological conditions is growing, including in the areas of technology, co-design, and translation. However, knowledge and implementation gaps remain.

Conclusion: The future of CPT will require us to harness co-design and technology, whilst meeting the implementation challenges of complex systems to enable communication for all.