Strategies
You can use a paper, white board, or phone screen to do this when speaking is tough.
What is Writing (or Drawing)?
When a word won't come out, you can describe its shape, color, or what you do with it instead of giving up.
What is Describing / Circumlocution?
A binder or folder containing your medical history, doctor names, and current prescriptions that you carry to every visit.
What is a Communication / Health Notebook?
A pocket-sized card in your wallet that states: "I have aphasia. It affects my speech, not my intelligence. Please give me time."
What is an Aphasia ID Card?
When ordering at a restaurant, you can do this directly on the laminated menu to show the server what you want.
What is Pointing to the item?
A supportive person can help by asking questions that only require a "Yes" or "No" or a head motion like this.
What is a Nod (or Gesture)?
Pointing to an item in the room or acting out an action using your arms or hands.
What is Gesturing (or Pointing)?
Writing down your main symptoms or top 3 questions on paper before entering the exam room.
What is a Question List (or Appointment Sheet)?
Using your smartphone's camera to snap photos of items, places, or loved ones so you can point to them later.
What is taking Photos / Screenshots?
Carrying this emergency contact item on your keychain, wrist, or phone lock screen in case you need help outdoors.
What is a Medical Alert Badge / Emergency Card?
Taking a deep breath and doing this gives your brain extra time to process words.
What is Pausing (or Slowing Down)?
Saying "That's not quite it, let me try again" or repeating back what you heard to double-check.
What is Clarifying (or Verifying)?
An up-to-date printed page listing every pill, dose, and time of day you take them.
What is a Medication List?
A chart featuring standard icons for emotion, pain levels, basic needs, and places.
What is a Communication Board / Picture Chart?
Keeping a pre-written note or digital list on your phone before going to the grocery store or bank.
What is a Shopping / Task List?
Turning off the television or moving to a quiet room reduces this distraction while talking.
What is Background Noise?
Using opposite words (like "hot" instead of "cold") or broad category words (like "fruit" instead of "apple") to get your idea across.
What are Synonyms / Related Words?
Asking the doctor or nurse to "Write down the main takeaways on paper" before you leave the clinic.
What is asking for Written Notes / Summary?
Text-to-speech mobile applications or AAC devices that speak typed or selected phrases out loud.
What are Speech Apps / Augmentative Communication Tools?
A quick phrase you can practice to ask for help in public, such as "Please slow down" or "I need a moment."
What is a Self-Advocacy?