Assessing functional communication: validation of the Italian versions of the Communication Outcome after Stroke (COAST) scales for speakers and caregivers
ABSTRACTBackground: There is an increasing need of assessing functional communication in daily activities and the impact on the quality of life from the perspective of the major protagonists of life situations following aphasia. Several instruments are available for English. One of the most recent is the Communication Outcome after Stroke scale for patients (COAST) and caregivers (Carer COAST). These scales are comprised of two components, interactive communication skills and their impact on quality of life, assessed through 20 question items, from the point of view of patient and carer. In contrast, the number of tools available in Italian is very limited.Aims: (i) To validate the COAST and Carer COAST scales for the Italian-speaking population; (ii) to explore the applicability of the COAST scales to a wider range of people with communication problems, not limited to moderate aphasia; (iii) to explore the agreement between patient’s and carer’s perspective on communication difficulties, and the effect o...