Introduction: 15% of ischemic stroke survivors under 65 years old, and 43% of the ones over 85 will experience aphasia (Engelter et al., 2006). Teaching Supported conversation techniques to potential partners of people with aphasia is stated in the Canadian stroke best practice recommendations (Hebert et al., 2016). If Supported Conversation techniques were taught to unfamiliar partner, this could help prevent difficult social interactions for people with a communication disorder (PWCD), that could possibly lead them to limit their access and participation in the community (Bunning & Horton, 2007).

Objective: To develop a training programme that aims to facilitate communication between adapted transport drivers and PWCD.

Methodology: A developmental research approach (Harvey & Loiselle, 2009) was used to develop the training. As a first step, the needs of the PWCD were determined by a literature search and interviews with five PWCD using adapted transport. A prototype was then designed based on the literature on training of unfamiliar partners, communication strategies, andragogy and interviews with seven drivers. Finally, the prototype was presented to a training expert committee that made sure that it meets the stated goals. It was then adjusted based on their feedback.

Results: A six hours training programme was offered to 13 adapted transport drivers. The training employed a participative approach and used pedagogical strategies, such as discussion, role play and analysis of videos. 

Conclusion: A training programme such as the one presented could help to adapt the city into a more accessible community for PWCD, including people living with aphasia.

Training adapted transport drivers to communicate better with their users that have a communication disorder