LangCog Seminar - Jade Cartwright

Connectedness has been identified as one of seven best practice principles for working with people with Primary Progressive Aphasia (PPA)1. This presentation explores how fostering meaningful connections – with self, others, and community – can enhance quality of life and therapeutic outcomes. Practical strategies and creative ideas will be explored for positioning connectedness as an outcome, as well as a critical ingredient of clinical interactions and program design. Drawing on research findings, real-world examples, and reflective practice this presentation encourages us to extend beyond language loss to more person-centred, relational, and collaborative models of care. It will offer insights into how we can work together to preserve identity and build inclusive communities that support connection. 

1 Volkmer, Cartwright, Ruggero et al. (2023). Principles and philosophies for speech and language therapists working with people with primary progressive aphasia: an international expert consensus. Disability & Rehabilitation, 45(6), 1063-1078. 

I have had nearly 20 years of clinical and research experience in speech pathology, with particular interests in the areas of dementia, primary progressive aphasia, aged care, and person-centred care. I obtained my PhD qualification in 2015 from the University of Western Australia. My PhD explored the psychosocial impact of primary progressive aphasia.  In 2016 I was invited to present the Speech Pathology Australia National Tour on the topic of dementia and speech pathology service provision. In 2019 I was one of 13 researchers in Australia to be awarded the inaugral Capacity Building in Care Research (CBCR) Fellowship by the Dementia Centre for Research Collaboration (DCRC). 

I previously held the position of National Advisor Aged Care for Speech Pathology Australia and have represented the Association on the National Aged Care Alliance. I have also served on the Board of Directors of Speech Pathology Australia and Huntington’s WA. I have received a Recognition of Service Award (Speech Pathology Australia) and the Joy Smith Award (Huntington’s WA) in recognition of the significant volunteer contribution made to these Organisations.