Constant Therapy: AI-Powered Aphasia Therapy

Overview

Constant Therapy has emerged as a major player in the digital therapeutics space for neurological rehabilitation. Developed by Constant Therapy Health, Inc. (formerly The Learning Corp) with origins in research at Boston University, this platform is recognized for its extensive exercise library, AI-driven adaptation, and significant research backing.

The app aims to provide intensive, personalized, and adaptive therapy exercises targeting a wide range of cognitive, language, and speech skills for individuals recovering from stroke, traumatic brain injury (TBI), or living with conditions like aphasia, dementia, or apraxia.

For Individuals with Aphasia & Caregivers

Key Features

• AI-Powered Adaptation (NeuroPerformance Engine): The app’s central feature uses artificial intelligence to analyze user performance in real-time, compare it to a large database of similar users, and automatically adjust the difficulty and selection of exercises to maintain an optimal level of challenge.

• Extensive Exercise Library: Claims the world’s most comprehensive library, recently updated to over 1 million evidence-based exercises across more than 90 therapy areas. Covers domains including:

  • Speaking
  • Reading
  • Writing
  • Auditory comprehension
  • Naming
  • Memory
  • Attention
  • Problem-solving
  • Math
  • Visuospatial skills
  • Executive functions

• Personalized Goal Setting: Users select their target areas for improvement, and the AI engine tailors the program accordingly.

• Progress Tracking & Reporting: Users can view their performance on a dashboard in real-time. Detailed reports track accuracy and latency (speed) and can be emailed.

• Multi-Language Support: Recent updates added support for Spanish (US) and Indian English alongside US English, with culturally appropriate content.

Usability & Accessibility

• User-friendly interface designed for individuals with cognitive and communication challenges
• Multi-language support
• Live customer support specifically trained to assist individuals with cognitive and communication difficulties
• Wide device compatibility, including lower-cost options like Chromebooks and Kindle Fire tablets

Cost & Access

• Monthly Subscription: $29.99 per month
• Annual Subscription: $299.99 per year ($25/month equivalent)
• Free Trial: 14-day free trial (no credit card required)
• Money-Back Guarantee: 30 days
• Payment Options: May be eligible for HSA/FSA payment
• Platforms: iOS (iPhone/iPad, requires iOS 9.3+), Android (smartphones/tablets), Amazon Kindle Fire tablets, Chromebooks supporting Google Play, and newer Mac computers (2022+)
• Internet Requirement: Requires an internet connection (WiFi) for full functionality

User Experiences

User reviews (4.3-4.6 stars across platforms) frequently mention:

• Motivation to practice regularly
• Regaining confidence in communication abilities
• Increased independence
• Noticeable improvements in targeted skills
• Appreciation for the adaptive difficulty

Some criticisms involve the subscription cost or occasional technical glitches.

For Speech-Language Pathologists

Therapeutic Approach

Constant Therapy emphasizes its foundation in neuroscience and clinical research from Boston University. The core methodology relies on:

• Providing high doses of repetitive, targeted practice using evidence-based exercises
• Adaptive learning principles implemented through the AI-driven NeuroPerformance Engine (NPE)
• Ensuring exercises remain challenging but achievable to promote neuroplasticity

Evidence Base

Constant Therapy places a strong emphasis on its research validation, citing:

• Over 70 studies supporting the underlying exercises
• 17 peer-reviewed publications specifically using or evaluating the Constant Therapy platform

Notable findings include:

• RCT evidence (Braley et al., 2021) demonstrating significantly greater improvement in WAB-AQ scores for the Constant Therapy group compared to a workbook control group in a fully virtual trial
• Studies showing that using Constant Therapy at home leads to increased therapy dosage and frequency compared to clinic-only therapy
• Real-world data analyses indicating a positive correlation between higher usage dosage and greater performance improvements over extended periods (30 weeks)
• Evidence suggesting effectiveness for chronic patients, regardless of time post-stroke, and potential benefits for individuals with dementia

Clinical Features

The free Constant Therapy Clinician app allows SLPs, OTs, and other professionals to:

• Assign specific exercises or goals (Home Exercise Programs - HEPs)
• Monitor patient progress remotely
• Use the app during in-clinic sessions
• Access detailed performance reports
• Facilitate carryover between clinic and home

Professional Reception

Widely recommended and used by SLPs, OTs, and neurologists. Clinicians appreciate:

• Its utility as a home program tool
• The extensive exercise variety
• Time saved on preparation and documentation due to automated tracking and reporting
• The ability to monitor patient progress remotely

Detailed Feature Analysis

Content Library

Claims the largest library among competitors, with over 1 million exercises across 90+ specific skill areas. The library covers:

• Language domains (naming, comprehension, reading, writing, speaking)
• Cognitive domains (memory, attention, executive function, visuospatial skills, math)

Content is continuously updated and expanded.

Customization Options

Customization is primarily driven by the AI engine’s adaptation based on:

• Initial performance assessment
• User-selected goals
• Ongoing performance data

Clinicians can customize Home Exercise Programs (HEPs) for their patients. Compared to apps like Tactus, there appears to be less emphasis on users adding their own specific content (like personal photos or words).

Support & Resources

• Live customer support via phone (1-888-233-1399) and email (support@constanttherapy.com)
• Support staff specifically trained to assist users with communication or cognitive difficulties
• Website with FAQs, how-to guides, and videos
• Blog (BrainWire) with articles for patients, caregivers, and clinicians

Awards & Recognition

Constant Therapy has received numerous awards, including:

• Hearst Health Prize (2022)
• AARP Consumer Choice Award
• American Stroke Association Health Technology Award
• Recognition from UCSF Health Hub, MassTLC, and others
• FDA Breakthrough Device designation for a version of its app (ST App)

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

• Strong emphasis on scientific validation, including RCTs demonstrating efficacy
• Extensive library covering both language and cognitive domains
• AI-powered adaptive learning system
• Robust research backing
• Platform’s ability to facilitate clinician oversight and assign personalized home programs
• Wide device compatibility

Limitations

• Subscription model may be a barrier after the free trial
• Requirement for an internet connection
• Less user-added customization compared to some competitors
• Some users report occasional technical issues

Conclusion

Constant Therapy stands out as a highly sophisticated, data-driven platform for aphasia therapy. Its AI-powered adaptation, extensive exercise library, and strong research validation make it a compelling option for evidence-based practice. The platform is particularly well-suited for:

• Individuals seeking intensive, adaptive practice
• Users who benefit from a system that automatically adjusts to their performance
• SLPs looking for a powerful tool to supplement therapy and monitor progress
• Those who prefer a wide variety of exercises across both language and cognitive domains

The subscription model requires ongoing investment, but the 14-day free trial provides an opportunity to assess its value before committing. For many users, the personalized adaptation and comprehensive exercise library justify the cost.