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Aphasia

Aphasia is an acquired disorder of language which impacts the ability to express oneself or to understand information.  It is often the result of a stroke, traumatic brain injury or brain tumor but also has other neurological causes.  Aphasia does not affect a person’s intelligence.  

Speech Language Pathologists are trained to evaluate and treat individuals with aphasia.

Language challenges associated with aphasia can cause difficulty with the following:

  • Speaking 
  • Understanding what other people are saying
  • Reading
  • Writing 
  • Using gestures

Speech-Language Pathology Evaluation & Therapy

Speech-Language Pathologists (SLP) have specialty training in evaluating individuals with aphasia.   They will help PwA and their families learn ways to support and improve communication. Your assessment may include some of the following tasks:

  • Stating personal information (name, birthdate, etc.)
  • Answering yes / no questions
  • Following single and multi-step directions
  • Naming pictures or objects
  • Answering open ended questions
  • Participating in conversation
  • Reading
  • Writing

 Using this information, your SLP will identify your areas of communication strength and weakness, and develop a tailored therapy plan to help maximize and improve your language skills. Your SLP will implement a person-centered approach and focus on life participation as you learn to live with aphasia.

Additional Information

National Aphasia Association

American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA)

Aphasia Access

Australian Aphasia Research Pathway

Aphasia Institute

Aphasia You Tube Channel

Videos

Aphasia, Imagine Life Without Words

Aphasia - Supported Communication Example