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Aphasia

Patient information A-Z

What is aphasia?

Aphasia is the term used to describe a communication difficulty. It can affect one or more of the following areas:

An elderly man and woman sitting down talking to each other
Understanding / speaking
An elderly man sitting down and reading a book
Reading
An elderly woman sitting down and writing
Writing

What are the causes of aphasia?

Aphasia may occur for a number of different reasons. Please speak to your speech and language therapist or doctor about the possible causes of your difficulties.

How speech and language therapy can help?

Speech and language therapists assess and help with language and communication difficulties. They can:

  • Offer advice and strategies for the person and family / friends.
  • Give therapy to help with communication difficulties.
  • Help to find the best way to communicate.
  • Offer support and understanding of communication difficulties.

What can help?

A clock showing the time 11:05
Allow plenty of time
  • Reduce background noise or find a quiet space.
  • Use writing, drawing and gesture to support communication.
  • Recap – make sure that you have understood each other.
  • Follow advice given by your speech and language therapist.
An elderly man sitting down giving a 'thumbs up' to the camera

Useful websites

Contact details

Your speech therapist is: ________________________________

Telephone number: ________________________________

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Other formats

Help accessing this information in other formats is available. To find out more about the services we provide, please visit our patient information help page (see link below) or telephone 01223 256998. www.cuh.nhs.uk/contact-us/accessible-information/

Contact us

Cambridge University Hospitals
NHS Foundation Trust
Hills Road, Cambridge
CB2 0QQ

Telephone +44 (0)1223 245151
https://www.cuh.nhs.uk/contact-us/contact-enquiries/