Abstract
The use of mobile technology, including smartphones and tablet devices, is a growing
trend among adults nationwide, and its potential use in aphasia rehabilitation has
generated widespread interest. Despite this trend, adults living with disability are
less likely than other adults to go online. Complicating things further, most adults
living with aphasia come from a generation where computers and technology were not
an integral part of their lives. Additionally, training adults with aphasia requires
a different approach than training those in the same age bracket without a disability.
This article describes the mobile technology program at the Adler Aphasia Center in
Maywood, New Jersey. The goal of this program is to improve access to mobile technology
for people with aphasia. The use of mobile devices is the focus of the article. Mobile
technology concepts and skills needed to establish a strong foundation for successful
iPad (Apple Inc., Cupertino, CA) use are suggested. We discuss how apps may be used
to support aphasia therapy with a focus on apps that are native to the iPad and on
other apps that were not specifically developed for aphasia rehabilitation. Challenges
in implementing a mobile technology program for people with aphasia and individual
member success stories are included.
Keywords
Aphasia - technology - apps - mobile device - life participation - iPad
