THE ONYX CLINIC

Communication impairment following an adverse event

Communication is a complex process, which involves many aspects of thinking and social skills. If brain injury impairs any of these skills then it can affect the ability to communicate successfully. The most common cause is from a head injury or concussion.

A traumatic brain injury or stroke can be a scary and life altering experience. Damage to the language or planning centres of the brain can result in aphasia and/or cognitive communication difficulties.

Aphasia

Aphasia is difficulty with language understanding or expression. Speech language pathologists support the recovery process for individuals suffering with aphasia by conducting assessments, providing strategies and training, and act as an advocate for the individual with their communication needs.

Cognitive communication impairment

Cognitive communication impairment includes the reduced ability to attend to conversation, initiate dialogue, process information, problem solve and remember or organize information. Although a person may be able to speak fluently and discuss events, they are aware of a change that appears to cloud their thinking. It can have a direct effect on an individual’s ability to return to school or work. Practitioners can provide screening, assessment and treatment for communication impairment. Book a pre-assessment today.