Service Delivery for Older Canadians with Dementia: A Survey of Speech-Language Pathologists

The purpose of this study was to survey speech-language pathologists (S-LPs) working in Canada, who identified themselves as providing services to older adults or adults with neurological communication & swallowing disorders, about their clinical perspectives & practice patterns in the area of dementia. Researchers designed a questionnaire-based survey specifically for this study & mailed it to 514 Canadian S-LPs. Three hundred & four completed surveys were returned. Respondents reported on their caseload & work habits in the area of dementia & indicated their perspectives on dementia, including the role of S-LPs & perceived barriers to service delivery. Although respondents indicated positive opinions on the role of S-LPs with individuals who have dementia & the potential of affected individuals to benefit from certain interventions, they also reported barriers to providing assessment & intervention services. The results of the survey provide a foundation for future research in the area of S-LP services for individuals with dementia in Canada, as well as directions for education, training, & advocacy. Tables, Figures, References. Adapted from the source document