How to support individuals with Aphasia in conversation
In one of our previous blogs, ‘What is Aphasia?’ we discussed some of the causes of Aphasia and what individuals tend to struggle with when they have Aphasia.
In this blog, we wanted to highlight some of the practical ways you can support an individual who has Aphasia.
These are some top tips, but is by no means an exhaustive list. As we say time and time again, every one is different and one strategy that works well for one individual, may not be appropriate for someone else:
- Get their attention before starting a conversation e.g. by saying the persons name.
- Make sure the person is facing you before starting to talk to them. If they are facing away, they are not focused and will likely miss what you have said.
- Reduce background noise wherever possible e.g. turn off the television or radio.
- Keep your speech volume at a normal level, you do not need to shout.
- Try and keep the message simple, but be sure not to ‘talk down,’ to the person. Keeping the message clear and concise makes it much easier to process and understand.
- Give the person extra time to respond. Often with Aphasia, processing time can take a little longer, so don’t rush.
- Provide communication “ramps” to support expressive and receptive communication, just as you would provide a physical ramp for someone using a wheelchair. Communication ramps may include objects, pictures, maps, or calendars, as well as tools such as pen and paper.
- Use objects of reference. For example, when asking if they want a drink, show them their cup.
- Offer choices using pictures, words, or objects to support understanding, expression, and decision-making
- Check the person has understood what you have said before moving on.
- Ask simple, ‘yes/no’ questions when possible. These are much less effortful for individuals to answer.
- Let the individual try and do things for themselves as much as possible, even if they produce errors. We want to encourage a sense of independence wherever possible, as well as support them.
