Brain Facts
Fill in the blank:
Aphasia is the result of a stroke on the ___ side of the brain.
Left
Myth: recovery only happens during the first three months after stroke. What is the truth?
Recovery happens forever!
What could you do if you're going out to dinner and the server is rushing you?
e.g., hand them your aphasia card
Aphasia affects intelligence
False!
Aphasia impacts language but NOT intelligence
True or False:
You can only practice language skills in speech therapy
False!
e.g., You can continue to practice at home and in daily activities
How long does the brain keep changing and recovering after a stroke?
Forever!
Myth: Aphasia is rare. What is the truth?
About 1/3 of people who've had a stroke develop aphasia
What can you do if you're at a party and have difficulty hearing and understanding what someone is saying to you?
DAILY DOUBLE!
e.g., ask them to repeat, ask them to write it down, ask to move to a quieter area
Aphasia is always caused by stroke
DAILY DOUBLE!
False
Stroke is a common cause but not the only reason (other reasons: TBI, brain tumors)
Explain the phrase:
"Use it or lose it."
If you don't use a function of your brain, it can start to decline
Explain: "Neurons that fire together, wire together."
DAILY DOUBLE!
e.g., If I work on one specific thing, that thing will improve.
Myth: Aphasia is just trouble finding words. What is the truth?
There are many different types of aphasia. Some symptoms include trouble finding words, understanding language, and difficulty with reading and writing.
What can you do if your grandchild wants you to read them a book that you cannot read?
e.g., look at pictures and work on describing them together
There are multiple types of aphasia
True
Types: Global, Mixed Transcortical, Broca's, Transcortical Motor, Wernicke's, Transcortical Sensory, Conduction, Anomic
Explain the phrase:
"Use it and improve it."
If you continue to practice your language, it will continue to improve!
What proportion of strokes lead to aphasia?
1/3, 1/4, or 1/5?
About 1/3
Myth: Everyone who has a stroke has the same problems after stroke. What's the truth?
Everyone's post-stroke experiences are different and unique to them.
What could you do if you don't understand something your doctor told you?
DAILY DOUBLE!
e.g., point to a pen for them to write something down
Aphasia only impacts speech
False
Aphasia can affect comprehension, reading, and writing, too
Explain the phrase:
"Consistency is key."
DAILY DOUBLE!
The more you practice language and repeat behaviors, the easier it is for your brain to learn