A focus on life participation

The Life Participation Approach to Aphasia (LPAA; LPAA Project Group, 2001) is a statement of values and priorities that emphasize the consumer’s viewpoint, attainment of meaningful life changes and outcomes, and participation in desired social roles and activities. Its development was influenced over a decade ago by the prescient need to address real changes in an efficient and effective way and to acknowledge the unmet needs of consumers with aphasia and their families. Since its first formal articulation, incorporating consumer values and targeting those supports that can lead to return to participation in life has grown. Assessments and intervention approaches that are consistent with this statement of values have been investigated and disseminated.