Primarily, it is important to start off by understanding that Aphasia can happen to anyone at any age; but it is more common in adulthood and old age. It is a condition that impacts the speech abilities of an individual, and has overlapping connections with other disorders related to speech (such as apraxia, dysphasia and dysphagia).
Aphasia can happen when there is some sort of damage to the brain, especially when the damage in the brain has occurred to areas that control the person’s ability to speak, or even the person’s ability to understand the speech of others and what others are saying. Oftentimes, this damage can happen as a result of stroke for example. It is a common symptom and consequence of stroke, with some research showing that it appears at least in ⅓ of stroke patients.
This condition affects a person’s ability to speak and communicate, and because of this, they end up feeling misunderstood and unable to share what they are feeling or thinking, or even what they need. Sometimes, they struggle even to communicate that they need something to eat or go to the bathroom.
So based on the above, can you imagine how difficult it is to live with Aphasia, and the impacts this symptom has on the mental health of the patient? This can lead to increased feelings of despair, hopelessness, helplessness, fear, anxiety, frustration, anger and sadness. Unfortunately, what happens is then these symptoms filter onto the caregivers, who become agitated themselves and feel helpless. Unfortunately, no specific cure exists for Aphasia. Oftentimes, patients may regain some level of functioning with the help of a Speech Language Pathologist (SLP), who will work to diagnose the type of Aphasia (Broca’s or Wernicke’s for example).
Finally, what can be done to help someone with Aphasia? Firstly, seek medical and psychological support and guidance to help ameliorate other symptoms or mental health symptoms. Secondly, look for different modes of communication; for example with patients who have Broca’s Aphasia, communication through drawing or writing can help. Thirdly, look for uses of technology that can help in facilitating communication strategies. Finally, be very patient and understanding and make it easier for them to connect and communicate. By doing so, you will be maintaining their dignity – which is vital in these situations.
Mr Yaser Teebi works as a Clinical Psychologist and Gerontologist at Willingness, and works with patients with complex issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic pain, grief and cognitive impairment. Mr Teebi has graduated from the following degrees with Merit: Bachelor of Psychology (Hons), a Master of Gerontology and Geriatrics , and a Master of Psychology in Clinical Psychology, all at the University of Malta. He is currently reading for a PhD in Clinical Psychology and Geriatrics at the University of Birmingham.
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