The role of AI in supporting written communication in aphasia: a qualitative interview study

Background Acquired dysgraphia impacts writing speed, spelling accuracy, and syntax. Writing is an important part of daily life that enables participation in social roles and community involvement. Several forms of assistive technology (AT) have been found to support acquired dysgraphia and artificial intelligence (AI) has been used to assess, diagnose and rehabilitate aphasia. However, the literature surrounding AI’s functional application to writing and people with aphasia’s (PWA’s) opinions on it is limited. Aims This study aims to answer the following questions: What do PWA report about their experiences of writing difficulties post-stroke? What has supported PWA with their writing? What are PWA’s perspectives on using an AI chatbot to support their writing during functional tasks? Methods & procedures Six participants with post-stroke aphasia attended an AI writing workshop at a university. Semi-structured interviews explored their experiences of acquired dysgraphia, use of supportive strategies, perceptions of using AI during functional tasks, opinions on how it could help in the future, and how it could be improved. Interviews were analysed using an inductive reflexive thematic analysis approach. Outcomes & results Two themes were identified from the data. Working towards social participation through writing: participants discussed that their writing was impacted by stroke, that it has improved over time, that they are motivated to practise writing and that writing facilitates social participation. Interweaving traditional and technological support: participants detailed both the non-technological and technological strategies they use to support their writing and were impressed by what AI could do, believing that it could help them achieve their writing goals. Conclusions The current results indicate that AI could be a compensatory measure for acquired dysgraphia which facilitates self-management, but that it requires improvements and training to tackle several barriers. They also highlight the need for person-centred, holistic care and the importance of support from family and friends.