The "Building Research Initiatives by Developing Group Effort (BRIDGE)" project, as detailed in the research article Building Research Initiatives by Developing Group Effort (BRIDGE): Patient-Partners in Aphasia Research, highlights the importance of involving patient-partners in aphasia research. This approach not only ensures more ecologically valid outcomes but also fosters a more inclusive and effective research environment.
Here are key takeaways from the BRIDGE project that practitioners can implement to improve their skills and outcomes:
- Collaborative Research Teams: The project successfully formed 11 research teams, each comprising individuals with aphasia, their family members, clinicians, and researchers. This model can be replicated to ensure diverse perspectives and shared decision-making in research.
- Appreciative Inquiry (AI): The AI approach used in the project focused on discovery, dreaming, designing, and implementing research steps collaboratively. This method encourages positive discussions and actionable steps, making it a valuable tool for any research team.
- Aphasia-Friendly Communication: Ensuring that all communication is accessible and understandable for individuals with aphasia is crucial. This includes using plain language, visual aids, and alternative communication methods like short video clips instead of lengthy emails.
- Pre-Conference Webinars: The BRIDGE project utilized pre-conference webinars to prepare all participants. This ensured that everyone had a basic understanding of research processes and their roles, leading to more effective collaboration.
- Follow-Up and Continued Support: Regular follow-up meetings and continuous support are essential for maintaining engagement and progress. The BRIDGE project included follow-up conference calls to monitor progress and address any issues, which is a practice that can be adopted by other research teams.
Implementing these strategies can significantly enhance the quality and relevance of aphasia research. By involving patient-partners at every stage, from planning to dissemination, we can ensure that the research is truly patient-centered and addresses the real needs of those affected by aphasia.
For practitioners looking to improve their skills, adopting a patient-centered approach and embracing collaborative research models can lead to better outcomes and more meaningful research. Engaging with patient-partners not only enriches the research process but also empowers individuals with aphasia, giving them a voice in the decisions that affect their lives.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Building Research Initiatives by Developing Group Effort (BRIDGE): Patient-Partners in Aphasia Research.
