Aphasia is a condition that affects a person's ability to speak, understand, read, or write. It is not related to intelligence, but is the result of damage to the language centers in the brain, usually after a stroke. The person remains the same – with his thoughts, feelings and personality, but he loses the ability to express or understand words. This creates a barrier that can be very frustrating and isolating.
What do we need to know?
- Aphasia can be different in severity – from difficulty finding the right words to complete inability to speak;
- It may affect spoken language, written expression and/or comprehension;
- It occurs most often after a stroke, but can also be caused by brain injuries, tumors or neurodegenerative diseases.
What to do?
- Do not underestimate the person with aphasia – he thinks clearly, even if he cannot express it;
- Use simple sentences and repeat what is important;
- Establish visual supports – photos, maps, gestures;
- Don't finish sentences for him – give him time to react.
Support from the Association for Stroke and Aphasia
The Stroke and Aphasia Association supports people with aphasia and their loved ones through information, speech therapy and specialized resources. One of the highlights of the project "I Communicate in Aphasia: In a Doctor's and Dentist's Office", funded by the Social Innovations Program of Sofia Municipality, is to increase awareness and access to communication solutions.
The Association will create:
- Language communication cards;
- Mobile application for communication support;
- Trainings for specialists and relatives.
Contact the Association: 0700 11 404 | info@stroke.bg | stroke.bg
It is expected that the resources for the project will be available on the website of the Association at the end of November this year.