Aphasia Center

Many people with aphasia have said that it is difficult to stay connected with family and friends because it is hard to communicate. In our fast-paced society, people don’t usually have the patience to wait while a person with aphasia finds the words he or she needs. In our Constance Sheerr Kittner Conversation Cafes (Connie’s Cafes), members have the opportunity to have their voices heard in a supportive environment. Adult conversation and social interaction are encouraged, with all group members practicing the use of successful communication strategies. Members share “recipes for success” for coping with aphasia and enjoying life. Connie’s Cafes generally run for 10 weeks each (note: the summer session may be shorter) and are offered four times each year (winter, spring, summer and fall semesters). All groups are held virtually. Group placement is determined by a speech language pathologist, based on the individual’s communication needs and preferences.

Many people with aphasia find that their ability to read has been affected by their strokes. The Talking Book Club was organized for those who miss the pleasure of reading and discussing books that others are talking about. Our “Talking Book Club” members listen to books on tape while following along in the corresponding printed book. The club meets weekly to discuss the readings and, as in other book clubs, to socialize. Selected Samples of Book Club selections include:

• The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd
• The Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown
• A Reporter’s Life by Walter Cronkite
• The Greatest Generation Speaks by Tom Brokaw
• Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt

Computer technology has the potential to reduce barriers to communication, improve skills and quickly connect people to information and social networks. In our computer lab, individuals who have completed speech therapy and have targeted self-study goals work to use specialized aphasia software (e.g., MossTalkWords® and SentenceShaper™) and refresh their computer, tablet or smartphone skills so they can email with family and friends, or connect through social media. These efforts are aimed at helping people with aphasia to maximize their communication skills and social interaction and to promote self-learning.

Reta’s Games Group Presents Virtual Variety Hour is a weekly meeting that provides an opportunity for people to use their communication skills while having fun doing things like play word games, go on virtual field trips, listen to music, and more!

Most people have never heard of the word “aphasia” until someone they know is touched by this disorder. As a result, people with aphasia, their families and friends have a lot of questions about living with this condition. The Aphasia Center organizes quarterly education programs on various topics. Examples of recent programs include:

• A Second Chance at Second Nature: Recovering One’s Language from Stroke & Aphasia – a presentation by Thomas G. Broussard, PhD.
• Reading and Spelling for People with Aphasia: What Can Happen and How Can We Help? – a workshop led by Sharon M. Antonucci, PhD, CCC-SLP, focusing on reasons that reading and spelling can be hard for people with aphasia, treatments that have been shown to help, and ways that people with aphasia can practice reading and spelling at home.
• Can We Talk? Communication Strategies for the Whole Community- a discussion led by Karen R. Cohen, Aphasia Center speech-language pathologist, about aphasia and techniques for making conversations more inclusive.
• Beyond Limits – a workshop led by Julie Goldstein focusing on coping strategies for patients with aphasia and their family members.
• High Tech Tools for People with Aphasia – a workshop led by Colleen Boger, Aphasia Center Speech Pathologist and ACT program facilitator, focusing on tips and tools for using apps and settings on personal mobile devices to facilitate communication and language practice.

The PATD program offers individuals with aphasia the opportunity to work individually with their family dog or in a group setting with a Jefferson Moss-Magee Rehabilitation facility dog. Programs run on a rolling basis, contact the Aphasia Activity Center for current information.