Communication Matters

Not everyone with a communication difference thinks of themselves as disabled. That's their choice to make. But whether or not someone uses that label, workplaces still have a responsibility to make communication accessible for everyone. 

This year marks the 36th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). In honor of that, I’m thinking a lot about what it actually looks like to build a workplace that welcomes people who communicate differently, and why it's good for everyone, not just the people who need the accommodation.

Tags: Speech, Communication, Support, Interpreting, ASL Interpreter, Communication Access

by  Jerry Hayes, PsyD and Maria O’Neil Ruddock, PsyD 

Tags: Support, Deaf, Communication Access, mental health, dbhc

What is AAC?

Tags: Speech, Language, Communication, Support, Stroke, Caregiving, Brain Injury, talking, Communication Access, Speech therapy, Stroke recovery, Aphasia, Primary Progressive Aphasia

Those caring for adults with speech, language, and cognitive challenges serve an important role in the healthcare management team. These challenges may be a result of medical diagnoses such as dementia, stroke, and ALS, or occur independently. No matter the etiology, support is often necessary to help individuals reach their goals. Due to the nature of this role, we are beginning to shift our perspective on how to most effectively refer to these individuals: care partner vs. care giver.

Tags: Speech, Language, Communication, Support, Stroke, Caregiving, Brain Injury, talking, Speech therapy, Stroke recovery, Aphasia, Primary Progressive Aphasia

If you know someone who is recovering from a stroke or other acquired brain injury, you may have experienced a heightened level of difficulty when participating in conversations. Aphasia, or language difficulties as a result of a stroke, can impact a person’s ability to express themselves or understand information. This breakdown in communication can lead to feelings of isolation and distress.

Tags: Speech, Language, Communication, Support, Stroke, Caregiving, talking, Communication Access, Speech therapy, Stroke recovery, Aphasia

Take your time when speaking. Speak at your own pace. Even if your communication partner is speaking quickly, set your pace and take your time. Your message is important and deserves to be heard.

Tags: Speech, Language, Communication, Support, Stroke, Caregiving, Brain Injury, talking, Communication Access, Speech therapy, Stroke recovery

You may find it challenging to access beneficial resources that allow you to properly care for your loved one. We have researched some at-home activities that encourage communication for adults who are recovering from a stroke or maintaining skills after a neurodegenerative diagnosis. These morning activities consist of routines that get you both up and moving and allow for independent participation.

Tags: Speech, Language, Communication, Support, Caregiving, Brain Injury, Voice, talking, Speech therapy, Stroke recovery

As a caregiver, it is easy for us to overlook our own physical, mental and emotional needs as we care for others. This can quickly lead to feeling burned out, which would not be beneficial for us or our loved ones.

Tags: Communication, Support, Caregiving

Preparing to go home after a hospital stay is never easy, especially after having a stroke. It can be a very overwhelming process with new challenges in thinking, memory, and mobility. The length of your hospital stay after a stroke can range anywhere from a few days to months depending on the severity of the stroke and the support system in place at home. There are many feelings associated with going home, excited to be back home along with feelings of anxiety or worry.  

Tags: Speech, Language, Communication, Support, Stroke, Brain Injury, talking, Speech therapy, Stroke recovery

Welcome to the first of a blog series on stroke recovery resource information from Cleveland Hearing & Speech Center (CHSC). Topics of the series include first action steps following a stroke, benefits of speech therapy, communication strategies, tips for caregivers, and much more.

Tags: Speech, Language, Communication, Support, Stroke, Caregiving, Brain Injury, Voice, talking, Speech therapy, Stroke recovery