How many people have aphasia?

Aphasia affects about one million Americans, or 1 in 250 people, and is more common than Parkinson's Disease or Muscular Dystrophy. More than 100,000 Americans acquire the disorder each year according to the National Aphasia Association.

Did you know?

Aphasia does not affect a person's intellect. A person with aphasia typically has difficulty speaking and sometimes understanding what people are saying, as well as reading and writing. Aphasia can be mild, or so severe that communication is almost impossible.

Who can have aphasia?

Aphasia occurs in people of any age, sex, race, or nationality.

Can aphasia be temporary?

Transient aphasia refers to a communication problem that lasts only a few hours or days. If word-finding difficulties last more than a few weeks, aphasia will, most likely, be chronic.

Can aphasia be prevented?

There are no definitive steps that can be taken to prevent the onset of aphasia in the event of a stroke or head trauma. The condition is determined by the location and size of the area of damage in the brain.

Tips for Communicating

Wait. Give time to speak. Resist the urge to finish sentences or offer words unless you get a clear signal that your suggestion is welcome.

Be sensitive to noise. Turn off competing sounds (like radios, TV, appliances). Keep your own voice at a normal level. Shouting does not help.

Be open to different ways of getting and sending messages like drawings, gestures, writing, and facial expressions. Shared understanding is more important than perfect grammar.

Confirm that you are communicating successfully. Verify that your partner uses "yes" and "no" consistently, then use yes/no questions to check key points.

All of the above information provided by the National Aphasia Association.