Exploring the Clinical Practice of Speech and Language Therapists with Adults with Dementia: A Cross-Sectional Survey in Portugal

Background/Aims: Adults with acquired communication and swallowing disorders secondary to dementia can benefit from speech and language therapy services. However, there is limited information on the role of speech and language therapists (SLTs) in the treatment of individuals with dementia. The aim of this study was to explore the clinical practice of SLTs with adults with dementia. Methods: A cross-sectional survey of SLTs was conducted in Portugal using a web-based questionnaire designed specifically for the purpose of this study. Results: A total of 230 SLTs responded to the survey. Among the respondents, 52.2% had limited clinical practice with individuals with dementia, with only 14.3% having worked with more than 10 cases. Conclusion: In Portugal, the clinical practice of SLTs in dementia is limited and mostly centred on the assessment of language, communication, and swallowing. The current findings highlight the need to address training in dementia within graduate and post-graduate programmes for SLTs.
Folia Phoniatr Logop 2016;68:216-221

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