Abstract
The broad purpose of this study was to explore speech-language pathologists’ (SLPs) perceptions of using semantic feature analysis (SFA) to enhance or maintain semantic skills in adults with primary progressive aphasia (PPA). More specifically, this study investigated SLPs’ familiarity with SFA and maintenance-focused treatment, their clinical considerations and therapeutic approaches when using SFA to treat adults with PPA, and their experience using SFA in maintenance-focused treatment.
In this investigation, I explored how traditional SFA protocol can be adapted to best serve individuals with PPA. By extending limited research into clinicians’ use of maintenance approaches and SFA to treat individuals with PPA, this study contributes to the body of professional literature on person-specific and treatment-related variables that inform clinical decision making and influence treatment outcomes for the patient population. I used quantitative survey research, along with selected qualitative probes, to explore SLPs’ experiences.
One major conclusion was that SLPs had considerable experience implementing maintenance therapy for individuals with PPA, and perceptions of this approach were relatively positive. However, substitutive treatments offer unique benefits that may make this approach particularly advantageous. In addition, there were several differences between how SLPs report they implement SFA and how SFA treatment is documented in the literature. This study has implications into using maintenance approaches to treat individuals with PPA and opportunities for future research on treating this population using SFA.
Advisor
Furey, Joan
Department
Communication Sciences and Disorders
Recommended Citation
Azad, Sabrina, "Speech-Language Therapy and Neurodegeneration: An Investigation of Speech-Language Pathologists' Perceptions of Maintenance-Based Semantic Feature Analysis Treatment for Adults With Primary Progressive Aphasia" (2024). Senior Independent Study Theses. Paper 11034.
https://openworks.wooster.edu/independentstudy/11034
Disciplines
Medicine and Health Sciences | Social and Behavioral Sciences
Keywords
speech-language pathologist (SLP), primary progressive aphasia (PPA), semantic feature analysis (SFA), maintenance approach
Publication Date
2024
Degree Granted
Bachelor of Arts
Document Type
Senior Independent Study Thesis
© Copyright 2024 Sabrina Azad