It is a communication disorder that occurs after a stroke, brain tumor/ injury, and that causes a complete or partial impairment of language use (oral and/or written – expressive and/or receptive).
The degree of disability depends on several factors: extent and location of the brain damage, patients age, patients prior level of education.
The symptoms may include
- Difficulty speaking
- Trouble understanding speech
- Word finding problems
- Trouble finding the appropriate word
- Problems with reading or writing
Speech therapy is the main treatment of the patient with aphasia. Rehabilitation is based on each patients needs and therapy involves the participation of the family and caregivers.
Speech therapy focuses on relearning language skills and incorporates a variety of approaches including augmentative and alternative communication, gesturing and writing to facilitate expression of thoughts and expressing basic needs.
The goal is to help the patient be the Best version of himself.