What is Aphasia?
Aphasia is a communication impairment usually acquired as a result of a stroke or other brain injury. It affects the ability to express oneself through speech, gesture, and writing. It also affects understand the speech, gesture, and writing of others. Aphasia changes the way in which we communicate with those people most important to us: family, friends, and co-workers.
The impact of aphasia on relationships can vary. No two people with aphasia are alike. Some differences include former speech and language skills, personality and the severity of the aphasia. But in all cases it is essential for the person to communicate as successfully as possible from the very beginning of the recovery process.
How to Communicate with a Person who has Aphasia
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Talk to the person with aphasia as an adult and not as a child. Avoid “talking down” to the person.
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During conversation, reduce background noise (i.e. television, radio, or other people) when possible.
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Make sure you have the person’s attention before communicating.
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Praise all attempts to speak; make speaking a pleasant experience and provide stimulating conversation. Encourage and use all modes of communication (speech, writing, drawing, yes/no responses, choices, gestures, eye contact, facial expressions).
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Give them time to talk and permit a reasonable amount of time to respond. Be patient.
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Accept all communication attempts (speech, gesture, writing, and drawing) rather than demanding speech. Downplay errors and avoid frequent criticisms/corrections. Avoid insisting that each word be produced perfectly.
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Keep your own communication simple, but adult. Simplify sentence structure and reduce your own rate of speech. Keep your voice at a normal volume level and emphasize key words.
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Use gestures and visual aids with speech whenever possible. Repeat a statement when necessary.
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Encourage people with aphasia to be as independent as possible. Avoid being overprotective or speaking for the person except when absolutely necessary. Ask permission to do so.
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Whenever possible, continue normal home activities (i.e. dinner with family, company, going out). Do not shield people with aphasia from family or friends. Do not ignore them in group conversation. Try to involve them in family decision-making as much as possible. Keep them informed of events but don’t burden them with day to day details.
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Source: The National Aphasia Association
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