Development and validation of a Comprehensive Level-Based Framework for Neurogenic communication disorders (CLFN)

Background Acquired neurogenic communication disorders are neurological disorders’ most commonly observed consequences. Profiling communication characteristics are a sensitive indicator in the tertiary centre that helps individualised management strategy to improve the quality of life in individuals with neurogenic communication disorders. Objective The research aimed to develop and validate a Comprehensive Level-based Framework for Neurogenic communication disorders (CLFN) by profiling the communication characteristics of individuals with acquired neurogenic communication disorders in a tertiary care centre. Methods The research followed a cross-sectional design and used a convenient sampling process for sample collection. A total of 76 participants were recruited for the research based on selection criteria. The initial administration of CLFN was documented as pre-levels for each domain for all the participants. A re-administration of CLFN was performed after 10 sessions over 7 days of intervention which was documented as post-levels. Results A greater proportion of participants were from the middle-aged group than in the older age group, and males were observed to have a higher frequency occurrence of neurogenic communication disorders than females. Pairwise comparison between pre-levels and post-levels was statistically significant for speech intelligibility, cognitive-communication orientation, cognitive-communication memory, cognitive-communication executive function, communication, spoken language expression, spoken language comprehension, repetition, naming, and writing domains. Conclusions The CLFN for Neurogenic communication disorders can serve as a reference for the holistic assessment of individuals with neurogenic communication disorders in a tertiary care centre. This will monitor the progress evaluation and plan the intervention program before the manifestation of any significant neurogenic impairment, which would improve individuals’ quality of life.