How to Treat Dysphasia

Dysphasia, or aphasia, is a language disorder commonly caused by stroke, brain injury or infection. A person will not have the ability to speak or communicate, though the intellect and mental capacity of a person has not changed. Slurred words and hard to understand sentences are a common symptom. The success of treatment depends on the mental capacity of the individual and the severity of the disorder.

Instructions

How to Treat Dysphasia

• 1

  Speech can be gained back after an injury. The brain can naturally heal itself to a certain extent. Some people suffering from strokes or other injuries often gain some of their speech or communication patterns back over time, though there is no guarantee. Natural healing will depend on where an injury occurred and how severe.

• 2

  Implementing individual speech therapy is a priority to improve communication. A licensed therapist will assess the severity of the dysphasia. Treatment is recommended to start immediately. Speech therapy is successful if objectives and goals are identified. Pronounciation of words and sounds is practiced.

• 3

  Use nonverbal communication devices. Computers and pictures can help someone with aphasia. Chart with letters, numbers and words are commonly used. A person must go through therapy to learn how to properly use the new communication devices.

• 4

  Involvement in group therapy allows one to practice techniques learned on an individual level. Therapists will assist to evaluate what areas need to be focused on. Many times family and friends are involved in group sessions to also learn new communication techniques.

• 5

  Involve family members and friends as much as possible. Being diagnosed with aphasia can cause emotional stress. A strong support system is helpful in rebuilding and learning communication skills.