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Aphasia

What is Aphasia?

Aphasia Now provides the following general guidance:
In essence, aphasia impairs the ability to communicate and as such, the effects can be devastating for family members who may know litttle about this disorder. It affects the production or comprehension of speech as well as the ability to read and write.

Aphasia is the medical term for loss of language Aphasic people are usually not able to reply spontaneously. Some speak in syllables, others speak very slowly, and they are able to formulate words only with great effort as they take time to 'search' for a word. Some are fluent but mix up sounds and words. Grammatical errors and problems with formulating sentences are common. The individual may end up saying something completely different from what he/she wanted to express, or confusing similar words, such as “yes” and “no” or “up” and “down”, or indeed repeating the same word(s) over and being unable to control this. Similar problems are experienced in trying to write.

Comprehension
The majority of aphasic people have problems understanding spoken and written language, being unable to follow a conversation, or misunderstanding statements, especially during rapid conversation, or in group situations.

Reading
 This ability is lost by many totally, or partially. However, even in severe cases, well-known words sometimes can be understood. Similar words are often confused, such as “hot” with “cold”. Some can read single words or sentences, but do not understand them.

Numbers
For many aphasic people the ability to understand numbers is greatly reduced.

Mime and Gesticulation
Sometimes these are disturbed as well, and are used not as intended.

Websites
Aphasia (NHS Choices)

The following organisations also provide support and guidance to people with aphasia:

• Speak Ability
• The Tavistock Trust For Aphasia
  
• Connect: The Communication Disability Network
  
• The Stroke Association
  
• InterAct Reading Service - provides a professional, live, interactive reading service for stroke patients in hospitals and stroke clubs.
• National Aphasia Association

Please also take a look at our Resources section (Learning Disabilities).