One thing we noticed as we compiled the Aphasia Threads post each week was the variety of answers to the same question. That is the power of the project: To show the scope of the aphasia experience. That becomes even clearer when you hear the answers in our first Aphasia Threads movie.

Our First Aphasia Threads Movie

In each Aphasia Threads post, we ask the caregivers what they would say if they were speaking with a fellow caregiver whose loved one had been recently diagnosed with aphasia. We pulled out five answers from past Aphasia Threads posts and brought them together into a single video.

Future Aphasia Threads Movies

If you’re part of the Aphasia Threads project, you may receive an additional email from us asking if we can have you record one of your lines as part of the script. Taping takes only a few minutes over the phone.

We’re so grateful for a recurring monthly donation that is making this part of the project possible. If you would like to help us grow this project, you can also set up a recurring or one-time donation.

Video Transcript

Let’s say you’re talking to someone whose loved one has just been diagnosed with aphasia. What advice would you give to a new caregiver?

Be mindful of what your loved one is going through, as it can be easy to look at the negative and dwell on your new hard life. Just remember how hard it is on the person who can’t communicate and can’t be themselves anymore.

Be patient. A new caregiver should research aphasia to learn about it.

Intensive speech therapy/aphasia treatment at UMAP is truly an incredible program to witness, benefit from, and support.

You will take missteps and you must forgive yourself for them. This is an incredibly difficult job that none of us have trained for, and you will do the best you can. Seek support groups in person or online, it will make you feel less alone. Educate yourself about how your loved one’s disease will likely progress. It’s scary to look down what you know will be a dark road but you MUST be proactive and plan for what is to come.

Everyone involved needs to be educated in all things aphasia so that all parties can be on the same page. Communication is key and will help keep the focus on what matters most.