What is Aphasia?

Aphasia is a communication problem.  Aphasia can result from a stroke or injury affecting the language areas of the brain.  Aphasia is a problem with language.  It is not a problem of thinking or intellect.  It is not the same as dementia. It is important to understand that people with aphasia know more than they can say.

Aphasia affects everyone differently.  There are several different types of aphasia.  Aphasia can vary in severity, from very mild to very severe.  One person may be able to speak with just a bit of hesitation, while another may be unable to say anything at all.  One person may be able to read and to write short sentences, while another may be unable to write his name.

Aphasia can affect all aspects of language use, including:

  • understanding what others say

  • talking

  • reading (silently, and understanding what was read)

  • reading aloud

  • repeating words

  • writing and spelling (whether writing by hand or typing on a keyboard)

  • using proper grammar to combine words into sentences (whether speaking or writing)

  • using numbers (e.g. counting, reciting phone numbers, doing math)

  • using hand gestures or pantomime

The following are common characteristics of aphasia, but often come as a surprise to families:

  • A person with aphasia may still be able to sing a familiar song

  • A person with aphasia may swear, and not realize it

  • A person with aphasia may be unable to say the names of familiar people (e.g. spouse, children).  The person still recognizes familiar people, but the language problem makes it difficult for the person with aphasia to say their names.

  • Justas a person with a weak leg won't have much endurance for walking, a person with aphasia may not have much endurance for conversation. He or she will need frequent breaks from trying to listen or talk.  Especially in the early stages, keep your conversations short.

 

 

 

New at ARTC:

Stroke Survivors and Caregivers are welcome to join our new Stroke Recovery Group. This support, education and sharing group will be hosted at ARTC in Brantford the 2nd Wednesday of each month at 1 PM. For more information, please call  ARTC (519) 753-1882.

 

Watch for more information on our annual Walk n'Roll event in May at the Lynden Park Mall. Pledge forms will be available soon. 

ARTC satellite program at the Willett in Paris is now offered Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays.

Caregiver support group meetings take place the third Thursday of each month at 6:30 at ARTC in Brantford.

Living with Aphasia support group takes place the first Thursday of each month at 6:30 at ARTC in Brantford (Oct - June).