Aphasia is an acquired language disorder that affects the ability to express and/or understand language following neurological damage. According to National Aphasia Association, 84.5% of people have never heard the term “Aphasia.” We wish to spread awareness of aphasia by covering the causes and symptoms of this disease and offering communication tips for caregivers. It’s also important to know that aphasia affects language loss, NOT intelligence loss.
Our eFIT at Home clinicians have knowledge and insight into medical conditions, thus having the ability to identify an aphasia scenario versus a cognitive impairment. Additionally, our therapists have resources, strategies, and interventions to educate and train clients to communicate effectively with others and make a significant difference in the quality of their lives.
Causes
- Stroke
- TBI
- Brain tumors
- Infections
- Progressive Neurological Diseases
- Dementia
Symptoms
- Difficulty following directions
- Trouble understanding spoken &/or written language
- Trouble with word finding
- Difficulty attending to tasks
- Use of nonsense words
- Substituting words
- Decreased awareness of speech/word errors
- Decreased reading or writing skills
Communication Tips for Caregivers
- Gain attention before communicating
- Keep communication simple
- Reduce rate of speech
- Use visuals such as drawings, gestures, facial expressions
- Give the person time to respond
- Avoid “finishing” their sentences
- Decrease background noise
- Provide choices
Live Independently
Follow eFIT at Home on social media!
About the Author
Ashley Rediger M.A., CCC-SLP
Clinical & Quality Specialist
Ashley is a Speech-Language Pathologist who has held various roles with Encore and is currently a Clinical & Quality Specialist. Ashley’s clinical interests focus on dysphagia and language-based interventions, including those patients with aphasia. Bringing awareness and education to those affected by aphasia, including patients, their loved ones, and caregivers, is a vital role of SLPs and one in which Ashley takes pride in.
