Conversation when you have a communication disorder can be frustrating for the speaker and the listener. Here are some tips on how to communicate with a person with aphasia shared by Aphasia Access, a non-profit network of community members and professionals dedicated to “advance lifelong communication access for people with aphasia.”
Simplify Your Talking
Emphasize key words and main points. Offer choices. Write them down for easy reference later.
Offer Communication
Tools Pen, paper, and visual aids.
Accept and use all forms of communication
Gestures, drawing, writing, pictures, devices.
Confirm Understanding
Use yes/no/other questions. Restate. Summarize.
Want a little more? Check out this DVD made for people with aphasia and their families as they begin to navigate their communication journey: https://www.aphasiaaccess.org/its-still-me-dvd/
