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Aphasia is a loss of language skills. It may occur if the brain is damaged. This usually happens after a stroke. People with aphasia may not be able to express their thoughts (expressive aphasia) or understand others (receptive aphasia).
Signs of Aphasia
Signs of aphasia vary with each person. A person with aphasia may show some or all of the signs listed below.
A person with aphasia may not be able to do the following:
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Understand words when others speak
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Speak in complete sentences
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Read or write
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Understand that numbers have meaning
A person with aphasia may do the following:
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Speak using only nouns and verbs
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Mix up the order of words in a sentence
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Use the wrong words or made-up words
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Have trouble working with numbers, as when balancing a checkbook
Practical Tips for Aphasia
A person with aphasia can still think, even if responding is hard. Try to:
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Ask questions that can be answered with a “yes” or a “no.”
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Speak slowly and clearly in simple sentences. Use simple words, but don’t “talk down.”
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Give the person time to understand and to respond. Try not to speak for the person unless you have to.