Language Disorders in Adults

2094V - Caring for Loved Ones With Aphasia: A Narrative Guide for Caretakers, Families, and Friends

ON-DEMAND

Format: 1-Hour Seminar (Virtual)

Audience: Students, Related Professionals, Early Career Professionals (under 5 years)

Keywords: caregiver, enriched environment, aphasia, stroke, communication partner strategies

Presenting Author(s)

Jennifer Mozeiko

University of Connecticut

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Deborah Yost

Lasalle University
Patricia Phillips

n/a
Gail Soverino

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Noreen Kepple

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Karen Weseliza

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Ann Marie Larson

University of Connecticut
Lorraine McPherson

n/a
Joellen Vasbinder

University of Connecticut

Seven women-- the mothers, daughters, wives, and partners of people with aphasia, got together at the beginning of the pandemic to write about their experiences navigating the medical system and rehabilitative process post stroke. They were each fierce advocates for their loved ones and even with their oversight many mistakes were made that potentially impacted health and language outcomes. They wrote their stories to provide a roadmap to others who find themselves in the role of caregiver. Additionally, their stories will impart the perspective needed to become better speech-language pathologists and health professionals. We will also discuss the role of the caregiver in the rehabilitative process and their part in "enriching" the communicative environment.

Learning Objectives:

Discuss the role of the family and the communication environment in the rehabilitation of people with aphasia
Explain the disruption of stroke and aphasia to the entire family
Assess the "cracks" in the system with an emphasis on the need for improved family communication and education