“It’s not a normal relationship, and it won’t be”: The impact of aphasia on spouses

Background Aphasia has far-reaching effects on both the affected individuals and their surroundings. In 2001, the World Health Organization (WHO) introduced the International Classification of Functioning (ICF) model, which includes the concept of "third-party disability", highlighting the challenges faced by healthy partners when their significant others have a medical condition. Despite family members expressing a willingness to engage in rehabilitation, healthcare professionals often overlook their negative emotions.