Telepractice in Aphasia: Troubleshooting and Planning Assessments Using the Virtual-Appropriate Decision Approach

Abstract

Purpose: This article describes the use of the Virtual-Appropriate Decision Approach (VADA). VADA is a systematic data gathering and problem-solving approach for planning and troubleshooting human, setting, and technology-related issues that may arise when conducting aphasia assessments via telepractice. Case examples are provided to illustrate and discuss its application for clinical and research settings. Method: We describe how VADA was used to analyze and mitigate challenges during administration of aphasia assessments in five (four cisgender males, one cisgender female) research participants via telepractice. Case discussions are organized by aphasia types and identify a variety of human, setting, and technology-related issues, which are analyzed via the VADA framework. Successes, challenges, and recommendations for conducting aphasia assessment via telepractice are included for each case. Conclusions: Unique challenges exist when using telepractice to conduct clinically valid standardized aphasia assessments for research or in the clinic. VADA is a systematic process to gather, analyze, evaluate, and address human, setting, and technology factors that impact aphasia assessments conducted via telepractice. The use of aphasia-friendly printed materials, assistance from communication partners, and similar task practice were adaptations that helped facilitate the assessment process.