Every June, Aphasia Awareness Month brings attention to a condition that impacts 2-4 million people in the US. Despite its prevalence, public awareness of aphasia remains low.
This month, we aim to raise awareness about aphasia and explore how AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) can support those affected. We’ll share insights from speech and language pathologists and AAC professionals, offer helpful tips for families and caregivers, and highlight our Aphasia Duo grid set, designed specifically for people with aphasia.
Understanding Aphasia
Aphasia is an acquired language disorder, often resulting from a stroke, brain injury, or other conditions affecting the brain. It can impact speaking, reading, writing, and understanding language, making communication challenging. Aphasia presents in various forms, which may include:
- Difficulty finding the right words
- Understanding what’s being said but struggling to respond
- Relying on gestures or drawings to communicate
People with aphasia know what they want to say; they may just need extra support to express it. This month is dedicated to helping others understand, connect, and communicate more effectively.
How AAC Supports Aphasia
AAC encompasses a wide range of tools and strategies to support or replace spoken language. These can include gestures, communication boards, and high-tech devices that generate speech. Low-tech AAC options might involve communication books, symbol cards, or alphabet boards, while high-tech AAC includes tablet-based apps, speech-generating devices, and eye gaze systems.
At TTMT, we offer our flagship AAC software, Grid. Within Grid, we’ve developed Aphasia Duo – a specialized grid set designed to help people with aphasia express themselves and stay connected.
What’s Happening This Month
Throughout June, we’ll share clinical insights and practical resources demonstrating how AAC can support people with aphasia and their communication partners.
Here’s what to look forward to:
- A blog by SLP Eva on how high-tech AAC, such as Grid, can support people with aphasia
- Tips and videos on using our Aphasia Duo grid set
- Insights and testimonials from speech and language pathologists on how AAC has supported people with aphasia in practice
Whether you’re new to aphasia, new to AAC, or supporting someone who is, we hope this month helps you feel more informed, empowered, and connected.