Online education program, communication effectiveness, and communication self-efficacy among family caregivers of people with post-stroke aphasia: A non-randomized clinical trial

Abstract

Background: To enhance the quality of care provided to people suffering from post-stroke aphasia, it is crucial for family caregivers (FCs) to possess a comprehensive understanding of the speech impairments associated with aphasia and to develop appropriate communication skills. This study aimed to examine the effects of an online educational program on the communication effectiveness and communication self-efficacy (CSE) of FCs of people with post-stroke aphasia (PWA).

Methods: This study was a non-randomized clinical trial involving a total of 50 participants, with 25 individuals assigned to each of the control group (CG) and intervention group (IG). FCs were specifically chosen because they were caring for PWA. The intervention involved an online educational program where the researcher taught FCs about aphasia and various methods of communication with PWA. information form, the Communicative Effectiveness Index (CETI), and the Communication Self-Efficacy Scale (CSES). Data analysis was conducted using
SPSS software.

Results: The two groups had similar demographics among FCs and PWA, as well as similar communication effectiveness and CSE at baseline. Following the intervention, a statistically significant difference was observed between the two groups in relation to communication effectiveness (P < 0.001) and CSE
(P < 0.001).

Conclusion: The implementation of an online educational program has the potential to improve communication effectiveness and CSE among FCs of PWA. By utilizing this approach, communication between FCs and PWA can be enhanced, ultimately leading to improved care for PWA.