Understanding and improving the lives of people with aphasia

From Impairment to Participation: A Systems Approach to Understanding the Complexity of Aphasia

NIH-funded research Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago D/b/a Shirley Ryan Abilitylab · NIH-11035284

This study is looking at how aphasia affects not just talking, but also thinking and socializing in everyday life, and it aims to create a new way to help people with aphasia feel better and more connected by focusing on their overall well-being.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionRehabilitation Institute of Chicago D/b/a Shirley Ryan Abilitylab NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-11035284 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how aphasia, a language disorder, affects not only communication but also cognitive and social participation in daily life. It aims to develop a new model that combines both impairment-focused and life participation approaches to better understand and address the needs of individuals with aphasia. By analyzing various factors that influence language processing and participation, the research seeks to create a framework that can guide effective rehabilitation strategies. Patients with aphasia may benefit from this comprehensive approach that considers their overall well-being and social engagement.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with aphasia, regardless of the severity of their condition.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have aphasia or related language disorders may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved rehabilitation strategies that enhance communication and quality of life for individuals with aphasia.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in combining impairment-focused and life participation approaches, indicating potential for success in this novel model.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndromeAlzheimer's Disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.