Stroke, Head Injury, Brain Tumour
Communication problems (aphasia, dysarthria and dyspraxia) occur when there is damage to the communication centres of the brain and are common after a stroke, head injury or brain tumour. There is good evidence to support the success of the therapy we offer, and research also shows that the sooner treatment begins, the better chance there is of a good outcome in terms of being able to communicate effectively.
Communication problems after a stroke, a head injury or a brain tumour may involve your:
- speech
- understanding
- reading
- writing
- voice
- facial expression
- gesture
- body language
You may have difficulties with:
- producing any speech
- effortful or hesitant speech
- 'finding' the word you want to say
- using the wrong words e.g. confusing "yes" and "no" responses
- taking part in conversations
- repeating words or sounds
- slurred or indistinct speech
- understanding what you read
- writing and/or spelling accurately
- concentration and attention
Our Speech & Language Therapy can help you by:
- Assessing your communication and explaining the diagnosis.
- Treating your specific communication problems.
- Finding the most effective way for you to communicate.
- Helping you develop strategies to compensate for impaired skills.
- Working with you and your family, friends and carers to maximise the success of communication in everyday life.
- Advising others how to help you be part of the conversation, and support your return to work or to your hobbies.
- Altering the environment in which communication takes place to help make conversations more successful.
- Exploring how computer software and technology may help enhance the therapy you receive.
- Suggesting other services which we feel may be helpful for you.
You can also find useful information from these sites
www.stroke.org.uk
www.speakability.org.uk
www.differentstrokes.co.uk
www.aphasiaalliance.org
www.headway.org.uk
www.britishaphasiologysociety.org.uk