AAC and stroke

Some people who have had a stroke may have communication difficulties.  The person may have problems understanding other people or producing the words that they want to say.  These difficulties may be long-term or can improve with time and rehabilitation.  A person’s ability to communicate after a stroke depends which part of the brain has been affected and how severely.

AAC and stroke in the hospital

Following a stroke a person usually spends some time in a hospital.  AAC may be available so that the person can communicate his or her needs.  Basic communication aids covering needs such as food, drink, pain, comfort and medication are used. If the person has reading and spelling skills, simple strategies such as the use of a pen and paper, a white board and texta or a magna-doodle© board are often available.  The use of AAC in hospital allows the person who has had a stroke to express his or her thoughts and emotions, as this is often a difficult time for all involved.

AAC and stroke in supported accomodation and day services

Most adults who have had a stroke live independently or with family.  Others live in supported accommodation, such as nursing homes and hostels.  These facilities can also provide respite care for people who normally live at home.  Some people who have had a stroke and live at home spend time in day centres, which provide care and recreational options for people who have disabilities.

People who have had a stroke can use a range of communication techniques within supported accommodation and day centres.  Most people use speech and language, however some people may use vocalisations, gesture, communication displays and/or voice output communication aids.  It is important to consider the person’s literacy skills when selecting or designing communication displays (eg. communication board, wallet, folder) and voice output communication aids.  Some adults who have had a stroke are able to read and spell.  These people may have communication aids or devices that use words and/or letters of the alphabet.  Other people are not able to read and spell and may use photographs and/or line drawings on their communication aids.

AAC and stroke at home

In general, AAC use for people who have had a stroke is likely to be less formal at home.  Members of the person’s family are often the most familiar with his or her unique communication behaviours.  Communication at home often depends on the intimate knowledge of who the person was prior to the stroke. The person’s spouse or living companion becomes the person’s primary communication partner.

The National Relay Service (NRS) provides telephone support to individuals who have complex communication needs and their communication partners. There are two different ways that the NRS provides help. Firstly, people with speech that is difficult to understand can speak to the operator at NRS who will interpret what is said and repeat the message to the listener. Secondly, a person who has had a stroke may use a telephone typewriter (TTY). This is a keyboard attached to a telephone, which is used by the person to type their message. The message is received by the relay officer who reads it aloud to the listener. In both situations the listener uses speech to respond.

Personal response systems are small personal alarms, which may be worn around the neck, on the wrist, or on a key ring.  They allow people who have complex communication needs to access help in an emergency situation.