The Current State of the Literature on Dual-Task Performance Across Multiple Domains in Individuals With Chronic Poststroke Aphasia: A Scoping Review.

Background: Understanding the impact that poststroke aphasia has on dual-task performance across multiple domains of function may inform the development of effective interventions. The purpose of this scoping review is to identify (a) the main theoretical frameworks used to explain dual-task performance deficits in individuals with poststroke aphasia; (b) the domains of function measured and the assessments used; (c) interventions aimed to improve dual-task performance; and, finally, (d) gaps that exist in the current body of literature regarding dual-task in persons with aphasia.

Method: A search of Linguistics and Language Behavior Abstracts, PsycINFO, Communication & Mass Media Complete, PubMed, CINAHL Plus, ScienceDirect, and the Cochrane Library was undertaken to identify publications on the topic. Articles were included in the review if they (a) were written in English, (b) included individuals with chronic poststroke aphasia, (c) included measures of dual-task performance, and/or (d) consisted of a theoretical narrative with a focus on dual task in persons with aphasia.

Results: Following the full-text screening, a total of 17 studies were in included for synthesis. Fourteen articles focused on dual-task experimental studies; one study consisted of a dual-task intervention; and two papers proposed a theory, framework, or schema to explain dual-task performance.

Conclusion: Gaps were identified in the literature, as well as differences in the methodology employed across studies, highlighting the need for consistency across experimental tasks and further examination across domains.