Understanding the Options for Aphasia Care.

Being unable to communicate with an aging loved one can be a scary and emotional experience for both the older adult and their family members. It’s difficult to know what to do when a relative starts mixing up words and struggling with phrases, but you’re not alone.

Approximately one million Americans and their families are affected by aphasia, a communication disorder, often reulting from a brain injury (most commonly, a stroke) that affects a person's ability to communicate.

When Aphasia occurs in older adults, it can feel overwhelming - but there are ways you can help your loved one and maintain a strong connection.

What is aphasia?

Aphasia is a communication disorder caused by damage to the language centers of the brain. It’s important to know that while aphasia can affect language, it does not affect intelligence.

Aphasia can show up in three (3) common ways:

1. Expressive Aphasia: Your loved one knows what they want to say, but has trouble communicating their thoughts in speech or writing.
2. Receptive Aphasia: They can hear conversations and see written words, but struggle to understand them.
3. Global Aphasia: This is a more advanced form, where your loved one has difficulty speaking, writing, and understanding both spoken and written words.

What causes aphasia?

Aphasia can result from many types of brain injury, such as head trauma and tumors. Among older adults, it can be linked to Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, or most commonly, stroke. While some elders may develop aphasia before and/or while living in an assisted living or memory care community, as part of a progressive condition, many can continue to live comfortably with the support of caregivers, family and friends.

How do I treat a loved one living with aphasia?

Some seniors with aphasia may benefit from physical rehabilitation or long-term care in a skilled nursing or assisted living community, such as those available at Episcopal Retirement Services’ (ERS) senior living communities in Cincinnati and Louisville. These specialized care environments can allow you to spend more meaningful time with your loved one, knowing they are supported by a team of experts who treat every resident like family, giving you peace of mind.

Family members and friends can use these simple steps to make communication easier for a loved one with aphasia—whether they’re living at home or in an assisted living or memory care community.

1. Treat them with respect. Speak to your loved one as you would anyone else. Avoid talking down to them or using baby talk—they’re still the same person, even if communication is harder.
2. Get their full attention. Eliminate background noises and distractions before starting a conversation. This helps them focus and feel included.
3. Give them time to speak.Be patient and let your loved one express their thoughts, even if it takes longer. Encourage them to participate in decisions about their care and daily life.
4. Create positive communication experiences. Avoid pointing out or correcting mistakes during conversations. Focus on making interactions pleasant and encouraging.
5. Encourage independence and social engagement. Don’t exclude your loved one from activities or social events. Isolation can substantially worsen their condition and emotional well-being.
6. Use clear and simple language. Speak slowly and use short, clear sentences. Repeat if necessary, but avoid shouting and baby talk.
7. Explore alternative communication methods.Try using tools like writing, drawing, signs and gestures, or facial expressions to help convey meaning.

Moving forward with aphasia care

Aphasia doesn’t have to mean isolation or the fast track to a senior living community. By understanding the condition and taking these small but meaningful steps, you can help your loved one live a fuller, more connected life.

If your loved one has aphasia or another condition that may require additional support, complete our free (and quick) 4-5 minute survey to learn more about senior living and which options may be the best fit for you or your family.