Monday 11 November 2013

Big CACTUS Computerised aphasia therapy research study





We are delighted to announce that the University  of Sheffield have secured NIHR funding to conduct a full randomised controlled trial to evaluate the clinical and cost effectiveness of supporting patients with persistent aphasia to manage their own speech and language therapy practice using computer software. 


The intervention consists of 1) SLT assessment and set up of tailored/targeted word finding exercises on a computer, 2) independent intensive practice with the computer exercises in patients own home 3) support from a volunteer or SLT assistant to assist with computer use. Participants in the study will be randomised to receiving the computerised intervention, attention control (daily completion of puzzle books), or usual care for 6 months. 


285 participants are required. We hope to engage 20 SLT departments to recruit about 15 participants each over a 15 month period!


Benefits of getting involved include:

Contributing to the knowledge base of our profession

Training on use of computer software and research procedures

Financial benefits from recruiting to a national portfolio study



If your department would like to join in with Big CACTUS we’d love to hear from you!!

Please contact Dr Rebecca Palmer for more information: r.l.palmer@sheffield.ac.uk

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