More About Aphasia

Understanding Aphasia

What it is, what it isn't, and why communication tools like ExpressAgain matter.

A speech therapist and an older man practicing speech together with a mirror

What Is Aphasia?

Aphasia is a language disorder that affects a person's ability to speak, understand speech, read, or write. It's most often caused by stroke, but can also result from brain injury, tumors, or progressive neurological conditions. Aphasia affects language, not intelligence.

Clearing Up Misconceptions

What Aphasia Is Not

Not a sign of confusion or reduced intelligence

Not the same as being unable to hear

Not permanent for everyone; many people improve with speech-language therapy

Does not mean someone can't make their own decisions

Types of Aphasia

Aphasia looks different for different people.

Expressive (Broca's)

Difficulty producing speech and writing, comprehension often strong.

Receptive (Wernicke's)

Difficulty understanding language, fluent-sounding but confused speech.

Global

Significant difficulty with both understanding and producing language.

Anomic

Difficulty finding specific words, especially nouns.

Practical Guidance

How to Communicate With Someone Who Has Aphasia

Speak directly to them, not about them

Slow down, give them time to respond

Ask yes/no questions when possible, confirm answers

Use tools like ExpressAgain to let them choose from options rather than generate language

Assume competence

Why We Built ExpressAgain Around This

Because comprehension, memory, and personality are so often preserved in aphasia, the most effective tool lets people recognize and select the right words rather than create new language from scratch.

If someone you love has aphasia, you're not alone.

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