The potential for museums and galleries to contribute positively to the lives of people with aphasia is underexplored. Research with other visitor groups points to benefits including enhanced well-being and social interaction; for people with aphasia, benefits could also encompass new or restored activity, reconnection to pre-stroke identity, and revealed competence (Lindsay et al 2022). There are indications, however, that these may be complicated places for people with aphasia, with barriers to access and participation.
The MAIA project comprises qualitative research and aims to provide knowledge that will enable people with aphasia to take part in and benefit from museum and gallery visits. Innovatively, MAIA has used walking and wheeling interviews with people with aphasia, in museums and art galleries (Lindsay et al 2023), in addition to traditional seated or static interviews. Specific aims include understanding the visit experiences, and the barriers and facilitators that affect visits. Knowledge gained will inform the future practice of museum and gallery professionals and speech and language therapists.
Doctoral researcher: Jayne Lindsay. Supervisory team: Professor Madeline Cruice, Professor Eamonn McKeown, Dr Nuala Morse
