Baptist Retirement Community understands the profound impact a stroke can have on senior adults. A stroke can affect not just their physical abilities but their ability to communicate as well, leading to difficulties connecting with others and maintaining life-giving relationships. Strokes can make everyday tasks instantly more difficult. But Baptist Retirement Community is here to help.
Call us at 325.313.7931 today to learn how our senior speech therapy helps seniors who have had strokes regain their ability to communicate. Everybody deserves a voice, and we are here to help.
Understanding Strokes in Seniors
Strokes occur when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients. In seniors, the risk of stroke is higher, and the consequences can significantly affect their quality of life. Part of the aftermath of a stroke can be difficulty with speech and language, known as aphasia. This condition can manifest as challenges in retrieving words, speaking in complete sentences, or following the flow of conversation. For most people, strokes commonly affect the left side of the brain, which is responsible for language processing.
What is Speech Therapy?
Speech therapy, especially when begun quickly after a stroke, can offer hope to patients and their families. Tailored to each individual’s needs, speech therapists work closely with seniors to help them regain their ability to communicate. Speech therapy can include:
Melodic Intonation Therapy (MIT)
This speech therapy technique uses the musical elements such as melody and rhythm, to improve verbal expression. It uses the right hemisphere of the brain, encouraging speech production through singing or chanting phrases.
Constraint-Induced Language Therapy (CILT)
A technique that encourages the use of verbal communication by restricting non-verbal forms, such as gestures. This intensive practice focuses on verbal expression to strengthen and rebuild language pathways in the brain.
Visual Action Therapy (VAT)
Gestures and visual cues are used with this technique in order to support non-verbal communication for individuals with severe aphasia. This method increases the understanding and use of symbolic gestures, developing communication through visuals.
Script Training
Involves the repeated practice of scripts used to improve conversational skills. This structured approach helps individuals gain confidence and fluency in everyday communication.
Semantic Feature Analysis (SFA)
Examines word meanings and associations, helping individuals remember and use words more effectively. This technique helps to develop vocabulary and comprehension.
Phonological Component Analysis (PCA)
Focuses on the sounds within words to help seniors with the recall of specific words and and their pronunciation. By breaking words down into phonetic pieces, this method develops better articulation and fluency.
AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication)
Using visual or auditory aids like picture boards or speech-generating devices to compliment speech. This approach allows a new way of expressing ideas, needs, or desires, while building confidence and independence.
Through consistent and personalized therapy sessions, where the right techniques are employed, seniors can make progress in their speech and language. They may regain their ability to speak confidently, express their thoughts and emotions, and participate in social interactions. While the progress may be slow, every step forward is a victory.
The Benefits of Speech Therapy After a Stroke
The benefits of engaging in speech therapy after a stroke are deep and wide-ranging. Recovering even a percentage of lost speech ability can greatly impact a senior adult’s quality of life. Here are some of the key advantages of speech therapy:
- Restoration of communication skills – The primary goal of speech therapy is to help seniors reclaim their ability to express themselves and understand others, an essential aspect of connecting with family, friends, and the community.
- Boosted confidence and independence – Being able to communicate effectively can significantly boost a senior’s confidence, giving them a greater sense of independence and participation in their own lives.
- Improved emotional well-being – Communication is at the heart of our social existence. Restoring this ability can alleviate feelings of isolation and depression, making room for more joy and engagement in daily activities.
- Support for family and caregivers – Speech therapy not only benefits the stroke survivor but also provides tools and strategies for families and caregivers to better communicate and support their loved ones.
- Prevention of further decline – Continued difficulties in communication can lead to a decrease in cognitive abilities. Engaging in speech therapy can help maintain and even improve cognitive functions by keeping the brain active and engaged.
The benefits of speech therapy those who have had a stroke and those who love them. Watching your senior family member decline can be extremely challenging. With speech therapy, you can connect more easily and keep making beautiful memories for as long as possible.
Call Baptist Retirement Community to Start Senior Speech Therapy
At Baptist Retirement Community, we believe in the power of comprehensive care that addresses the whole person—body, mind, and spirit. Our dedicated team of therapists is committed to providing compassionate, personalized speech therapy for stroke survivors, helping them to reconnect with the joys of communication and community.
If you or a loved one has experienced a stroke and now faces challenges, find out more about speech therapy’s benefits. Call 325.313.7931 or submit our contact form to schedule a consultation. Learn more about our senior speech therapy services today, and let us be your partner in recovery and wellness.