Abstract

People with aphasia and those closest to them experience changes in their lives and relationships due to aphasia. These changes may be particularly impactful for married couples. The aim of this study was to increase understanding of the dynamic and complex experiences of couples impacted by aphasia and to add personal perspectives to the creation of practical treatments and resources. Twenty-eight participants (14 married couples) participated in both individual and couples' semi-structured interviews, resulting in 42 total interviews for analysis. Participants answered open-ended questions about aphasia's influence on the couple's communication and relationship. Interviews were then transcribed orthographically and coded using reflexive thematic analysis. To ensure the codes accurately reflected participants' experiences, member checking was performed with six of the 14 couples (43%). Analysis resulted in three broad themes: (a) direct impacts of aphasia on marriage, (b) secondary impacts of aphasia on marriage, and (c) mitigating factors. Each theme included two or three descriptive categories: Theme 1 categories included communication difficulties and limited engagement; Theme 2 categories included emotions, emotional well-being, and shifting roles, and Theme 3 categories included coping and spouse's influence. Results suggest that, for couples impacted by aphasia, communication and frustration are interrelated, modified time together and shifting roles lead to relationship-related mourning, and healthy coping includes a balance between mutual support and autonomy. Practices and treatment focused on these findings may benefit couples as they navigate aphasia-related changes in their communication and relationships.

Degree

College and Department

David O. McKay School of Education; Communication Disorders

Rights

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