Consequences of acquired brain injury or post-COVID on language and communication - the interplay between subjective and objective difficulties over time

This project aims to explore and compare language and communication difficulties due to acquired brain injury (ABI) or post-COVID condition (PCC) longitudinally, and their consequences on everyday life. To achieve this aim, we will carry out 2 studies over 4-years.

Study 1 will collect survey data (twice with a 2-year interval) from appr. 500 participants regarding their language and communication difficulties and resulting consequences in everyday life.

Study 2 will include 150 participants with progressive or nonprogressive ABI and PCC who will undergo extensive tests of language and cognition including subjective ratings of language difficulties. Data will be collected twice, and in the intervening 2-year interval, participants will complete brief tasks online.

The data collected will be analysed quantitively and qualitatively using appropriate statistical methods. The work group consists of 4 researchers with extensive experience in the field.

Language and communication difficulties, even if mild, negatively impact quality of life, and ability to participate in everyday life.

The project will increase knowledge about the interplay between subjective and objective language difficulties over time, and which factors that are associated with a positive change.

This can contribute to and expand theories on communication in ABI, and lead to improved interventions for persons with ABI and PCC, as we will be able to better discern what support they require.