by Becky L. Spivey, M.Ed.
What Causes Aphasia?
Aphasia may occur after damage to the part of the brain where we organize, store, and produce written and spoken language.
Although aphasia is more common among older adults following a stroke, aphasia can occur across all ages, races, nationalities,
and genders. Acquired childhood aphasia occurs when a child whom has already begun learning language experiences brain trauma.
How Common is Aphasia?
There are over 2 million Americans and 15 million people worldwide that are living with aphasia. More than 180,000 people each
year get aphasia. It affects 1 in 250 people and is more common than cerebral palsy, Parkinson’s disease, or muscular dystrophy.
Are There Different Types of Aphasia?
There are many types of aphasia with two main groups: Fluent and Nonfluent. A person with fluent aphasia produces connected
speech, but the sentences and context lack meaning. They may also struggle to understand what others are saying. A person
with nonfluent aphasia exhibits speech that requires greater effort to produce words, and may often speak in short phrases.
Symptoms may differ greatly, but the bottom line is that all people with aphasia will have some difficulty communicating.
The symptoms of aphasia may be temporary or permanent, depending upon the amount of brain damage a child experiences.
What are Some Strategies for a Child or Adult with Aphasia?
- Strengthen remaining language skills
- Find ways to compensate for the skills that are lost
- Improve memory of object names with picture flash cards
- Communicate with others using pictures of objects and other familiar activities
- Practice reading and writing exercises in workbooks
- Learn sign language
- Use computer programs to aid in speech, hearing, reading comprehension, and recall.
What Can I do to Help a Child or Adult with Aphasia?
- Give the person with aphasia time to speak—do not try to finish his/her sentences.
- Turn off background noise when possible (TVs, radios, etc.).
- Use other means of communication (drawing, gesturing, or writing key words).
- Confirm to the person with aphasia that you understand their communication.
- Speak simply and directly—you do not need to shout.
- Limit the use of figurative language.
- Ask yes/no questions whenever possible.
- Avoid using numbers; they are difficult for some aphasia patients to understand.
Children with aphasia and their caregivers need support and guidance. Physicians and hospitals can provide listings
of support groups in your local area. The best source of basic information about aphasia for those living with this
condition and their families is the Response Center of the National Aphasia Association (NAA). Contact the NAA via
the internet:
www.aphasia.org or
naa@aphasia.org.
