Communication is a vital part of human life and it is very frustrating when one is unable to communicate effectively.

Unfortunately, aphasia is a neurological condition that affects a person’s ability to communicate and express themselves through language. It affects the ability to speak, understand, read and write. Aphasia can be caused by a stroke, traumatic brain injury, or degenerative neurological disorders.

Understanding Aphasia

There are different types of aphasia, namely:.

Broca’s aphasia – a person with Broca’s aphasia has difficulty speaking but can understand spoken language.
Wernicke’s aphasia – a person with Wernicke’s aphasia has difficulty understanding spoken language but speaks fluently.
Global Aphasia – this is the most severe form of aphasia and affects language comprehension, expression, reading, and writing abilities.
Primary Progressive Aphasia – this is a rare disorder that affects speech and language negatively, and it progresses with time.

: Improving Communication Ability

Reviving communication for individuals with Aphasia is necessary to help them regain their ability to communicate and express themselves. Here are some ways to improve communication ability:.

Speech Therapy

Speech therapy is the common way to treat aphasia. A speech-language pathologist (SLP) will work with the patient to develop a personalized treatment plan. The plan will include exercises to improve speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills.

Speech therapy may also include alternative communication methods such as using pictures, gestures, and technology.

Music Therapy

Music has been known to be a therapeutic tool for several conditions and now Aphasia has been added to the list. Music therapy can help individuals with aphasia to speak again after suffering from a stroke.

It involves a process called Melodic Intonation Therapy (MIT) which targets the language areas of the brain. It can help individuals with Broca’s aphasia to regain the ability to speak fluently and with ease.

Technology Based Interventions

Technology can make life easier for individuals with aphasia. There are several apps, communication devices, and tools designed to help people with aphasia communicate effectively.

With these devices, people with aphasia can learn to communicate their thoughts and needs. These devices include AAC communication devices, visual interactive communication, and dictation software.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Aphasia can be a frustrating and challenging condition that often leads to emotional distress. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help an individual come to terms with the condition and help them understand their emotions.

It can also help them overcome negative thought patterns, anxiety, and depression.

: Conclusion

Aphasia is a condition that can negatively affect an individual’s ability to communicate and express themselves. The good news is that there are various interventions to help individuals with aphasia to regain their communication ability.

Speech therapy, music therapy, technology-based interventions, and cognitive-behavioral therapy are some of the interventions that can help improve communication ability.