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7155134 
Journal Article 
"It's not really worth my while": understanding contextual factors contributing to decisions to participate in community aphasia groups 
Lanyon, L; Worrall, L; Rose, M; , 
2019 
Yes 
Disability and Rehabilitation
ISSN: 0963-8288 
TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD 
ABINGDON 
1024-1036 
29320876 
WOS:000465207500003 
Purpose: Community aphasia groups represent a formalised opportunity for social participation. The potential barriers and facilitators to accessing and maintaining group participation remain poorly understood. The aim of this study was to explore environmental and personal factors contributing to community aphasia group participation. Methods: A framework analysis (FA) was used to analyse the semi-structured interview data from 22 current and past members of community aphasia groups. Results: People with aphasia weigh up the benefits of group participation in the context of a range of personal and environmental factors. These include personal coping mechanisms, perceptions of existing social support as well as the practicalities of accessing the group. Conclusions: Understanding factors that contribute to participation experiences is critical to ensure that, people with aphasia are well supported to access and engage in community aphasia groups. This study found that people may be more able to participate when they are accepting of the chronic nature of the aphasia, when they identify tangible benefits to participation, and when they have easy access to the group. This suggests a role for speech pathologists to recognise critical periods of need and support people with aphasia and their significant others to access and engage in group services.