Communication Connect: AI-Enhanced Self-Management for Communication Disability from Stroke and Traumatic Brain Injury

Abstract

Background: Communication disability resulting from stroke or traumatic brain injury affects over 250,000 Australians and significantly impacts daily life, mental health, and social participation. Current healthcare services do not support long-term management for these individuals.   Aims: Communication Connect, an NHMRC-funded project, aims to empower individuals with communication disabilities to manage their condition independently. The primary goal is to offer an AI-driven self-management platform that enables people with communication disability, their family and caregivers, and health professionals to optimise recovery, maintain well-being, and reduce social isolation.   Methods: Communication Connect was co-designed using the Experience-Based Co-Design (EBCD) approach, involving people with lived experience (n=8), caregivers (n=3) and health professionals (n=18). We identified and prioritised 13 key challenges to be addressed. During iterative co-design workshops, the platform and multiple novel tools were developed as solutions.   Results: The co-design process produced a highly accessible, AI-enhanced web app that supports self-management by providing resources, information and deploying custom tools. Key technological features include deep learning for aphasic speech recognition, reinforcement learning for customised recommendations, and AI-enabled mood tracking on a mobile app. These technologies allow the platform to adapt dynamically to each user's needs.   Discussion: Co-design ensured that Communication Connect is relevant, user-friendly, and accessible to those with communication disabilities, addressing real-world challenges. Future work will involve refining the platform and evaluating its effectiveness through an upcoming pilot trial.