Speech therapy offers indispensable help for stroke survivors to regain their ability to communicate effectively. A highly trained speech pathologist works closely with individuals to address challenges such as speech difficulties, language difficulties, and cognitive impairments caused by the stroke.
Speech difficulties are common among adults post-stroke. These challenges vary from mild to severe and may include problems with speaking, understanding speech, or difficulty producing certain sounds.
Some individuals may also experience changes in their voice, such as hoarseness or a weak voice. These speech difficulties can greatly affect an individual’s communication skills; there’s even a possibility of losing the skills to participate in daily activities.
A speech pathologist evaluates the individual’s speech abilities to determine the extent of the impairment. This assessment starts with repeating words or sentences, naming objects, and answering questions. Also, the speech pathologist will consider factors, i.e., type of stroke, the area of the brain affected, and any existing medical conditions that may impact speech.
Language difficulties are also common after a stroke, particularly for individuals who have had a stroke on the left side of their brain. This is because the left side of the brain is responsible for language processing in most people.
Language difficulties may manifest as difficulty understanding spoken or written language, trouble expressing thoughts and ideas, or challenges with reading and writing. A speech pathologist will use various techniques to help individuals improve their language skills, such as teaching strategies to compensate for impaired areas of the brain and practising everyday communication tasks.
A stroke can also cause cognitive impairments, such as difficulty with memory, attention, and problem-solving. These challenges can greatly impact an individual’s ability to communicate effectively, as they may struggle to find the right words or process information quickly.
Speech pathologists work closely with individuals to develop strategies and exercises to improve cognitive functioning. This may include practising memory tasks, using visual aids for communication, or breaking down complex ideas into smaller pieces.
Speech pathology is practised by professionals who leverage personalized services designed to the specific needs of the patient, focusing on exercises and strategies that target both verbal and non-verbal communication.
A speech pathologist uses evidence-based techniques to support the recovery of both expressive and receptive skills. For those experiencing speech difficulties, therapy may involve improving articulation, voice quality, and fluency. Meanwhile, individuals facing language difficulties, which often include trouble understanding or formulating words, benefit from targeted activities designed to rebuild those critical pathways in the brain. The ultimate goal of these speech pathology services is not only to restore communication but also boost patients’ confidence.
Comprehensive speech pathology addresses various aspects of recovery, from basic speech production to higher-level cognitive processes involved in effective communication. Stroke survivors often require consistent and collaborative care from their medical team, including accessing specialized speech pathology services, to achieve meaningful progress.
By recovering speech and language abilities, patients can reconnect with loved ones, reengage with their communities, and regain their sense of independence.
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Dear Valued Patient,
As many of you know, Speak Hear and South Australia Speech and Hearing Centre (SASHC) have been sister clinics for some time. We are excited to share that we are now coming together as one dedicated clinic across two locations under the name:
Please be assured that while our name and look are changing, the quality and continuity of your care will remain the same. At SASHC, our mission is to create lifelong connections with our patients, families, referrers, and community.
