How Can I Help My Loved One with Aphasia?

What is Aphasia?

Aphasia is a communication disorder that affects a person's ability to process and use language. It can impact speaking, understanding, reading, and writing, making it a challenging condition for both individuals and their loved ones. Aphasia is primarily caused by damage to the parts of the brain responsible for language, so it can affect people following stroke, head injury, brain tumour and dementia.

Symptoms of Aphasia

The symptoms of aphasia can vary widely depending on the type and severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:

• Difficulty speaking or forming sentences.

• Struggling to find the right words.

• Using incorrect words or phrases.

• Challenges in understanding spoken or written language.

• Difficulty reading or writing.

  
  

Symptoms of aphasia often get worse in some situations - when a person is feeling under pressure, lots of emotion, fatigued from doing other activities or just tired at the end of the day.

You might notice that high frequency words (words you use a lot) are impacted less than low frequency words (words used less often) and you might notice that high imageability words (words which generate a concrete image e.g. apple, plate, pen) are impacted less than low imageability words (more abstract words e.g. feelings, descriptive words).

It is also common for automatic speech e.g. common phrases, counting, the days of the week etc to be easier for a person to access.

Treatment Options for Aphasia

While there is no cure for aphasia, various treatment options can help individuals regain or retain (depending on the cause of aphasia) their communication skills:

• Speech and Language Therapy: Working with a speech-language pathologist (SLP) can help improve language abilities through targeted exercises and strategies.

• Group Therapy: Participating in group sessions can provide individuals with social support and practice in a safe environment.

• Family Education: Educating family members about aphasia can enhance communication strategies and support networks, including conversation partner training which is a specific type of therapy focusing on family.

• Use of Technology: Various apps and tools are available to assist with communication and language practice.

How Can I Support My Loved One with Aphasia?

The best way to support your loved one is to first work with a therapist to help you understand the subtype of aphasia that the person has. You can also explore which cues that the person responds to and ask how to best support them.

Here are some more general tips which will help with most people with aphasia:

• Give them plenty of time and low pressure space to think

• Reduce the cognitive load for them - ask them one thing at a time, try not to ask them to 'multi task' e.g. talking whilst making a cup of tea, walking up the stairs or watching the tv

• Reduce distractions around them - aim for a quiet calm environment without too much going on

• Ensure they can see your face directly and use gestures to support your meaning

• Avoid using long complicated sentences

• If they are struggling to express themselves and getting frustrated, start with broad yes / no questions (e.g. is it about something now? is it about something later? is it about something you need?)

• Encourage them to use gestures, draw, write any letters down or point to objects.

• If they are frequently struggling with making their needs known or expressing their feelings, consider making a communication chart with clear pictures. You can also discuss this with your therapist.

• Consider what helps them find words - usually people with aphasia respond to cues. Instead of giving them the word they are looking for can you gently prompt or cue them and give them some extra time? E.g. "You're looking for your gl....." instead of "You're looking for your glasses?"

• Consider that it can be more difficult if someone is feeling tired or emotional. Perhaps agree to "put a pin in it" and come back later.

• Try to be understanding and compassionate. Having aphasia is so hard, exhausting and difficult for both of you. Try to show that you know it's hard and it is hard for you both.

Conclusion

Aphasia is a complex condition that can significantly impact an individual's quality of life. Understanding its causes, types, symptoms, and treatment options is essential for those affected and their families. With appropriate support and therapy, many individuals with aphasia can improve their communication skills and lead fulfilling lives. If you or someone you know is struggling with aphasia, seeking professional help is a crucial first step toward recovery.

Access support from a therapist or counsellor if you are finding it tough. You can look to see what a relevant charity might be able to help you with e.g. The Stroke Assocation, The Brain Tumour Charity.

Visit your GP to discuss therapy and a referral to Speech & Language Therapy through the NHS.