About language difficulties that may result after a stroke
What is a stroke?
A stroke is the disturbance of blood supply to part of the brain that results in rapid loss of brain function. It can be caused by a blockage or bleeding. A blockage stops oxygen and starves brain tissue. Bleeding causes damage to the brain tissue and also causes pressure on the tissue around the bleed.
What is Aphasia?
Aphasia is a communication disorder which may occur as a result of a stroke. This can lead to changes in the ability to use and/or understand language. Aphasia may affect:
• Language (speaking and/or understanding)
• Reading
• Writing
• Thinking
• Remembering
How can a Speech Pathologist help?
Speech Pathologists assess patients to determine where their strengths and difficulties lie. Following comprehensive assessments, Speech Pathology interventions aim to maximise a patient’s communication and functional participation in everyday life activities (i.e. ordering food from restaurants, talking on the phone etc.).
Aphasia therapy can be one-on-one, with family and/or in groups.
Depending on the needs of each patient, therapies may target:
• Following instructions
• Repetition and recall
• Auditory memory/processing
• Naming items
• Reading Comprehension
• Role plays (i.e. telephone calls)
• Reading specific items (e.g. sports pages)
• Writing (e.g. filling in forms/signing name)
If you or a family member need assistance and treatment to improve communication following a stroke contact your local doctor, who will arrange for you to see a speech pathologist. We‘ll provide you with a straightforward, efficient and very effective treatment plan targeted to your concerns.
