How to Get Help for Aphasia: A Guide for Adults with Aphasia and Their Families

At Chatty Therapy, we recognize that aphasia changes more than words; it can change how we connect with others, how we express ourselves, and how everyday moments feel. Here's a starting guide on how to get help for someone with aphasia. If you are living with aphasia, or supporting someone who is, please know that you are not alone. We are passionate about empowering adults, families, caregivers, and communities to support people with communication difficulties.

What cause aphasia?

Adults can experience changes in their ability to communicate for many reasons, including stroke, brain injury, surgery, or progressive neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, or brain tumors. Stroke and brain injury are among the most common causes of acquired communication challenges in adults. When language is affected in this way, it is called aphasia.

What is aphasia?

If you or someone you love is experiencing aphasia, communication may take more effort than it used to. Finding the right words, understanding conversations, or expressing thoughts can feel harder and more tiring. Even so, key ideas, feelings, and personality are still there. Communication is something we build together, and there are gentle, supportive strategies that can make conversations feel easier, meaningful and natural again. Learn more about aphasia here.

How can I help someone with aphasia?

For families and caregivers, it is okay to feel unsure about how to help. Aphasia can be deeply frustrating for everyone involved, but communication is a two-way process. Small changes such as slowing down, using simpler language, allowing extra time, or using gestures and visual supports can truly make a difference. These strategies help both to get your message across and to support your loved one in sharing their ideas, needs, and feelings, so their voice can be heard.

However aphasia began, the experience can feel confusing and overwhelming at times. With understanding, patience, and the right support, communication can become less about finding perfect words and more about staying connected. That's why we've created a simple guide for adults with aphasia and their families.

Where can I get help for adults with aphasia in Edmonton, Alberta?

If you are located in Edmonton, Alberta, there are local supports available for adults with aphasia and the people who care about them. Some individuals and families find comfort and community at the Alberta Aphasia Camp, where people with aphasia and their families can spend time together in a welcoming environment designed by speech-language pathologists. 

For those seeking therapy at a reduced cost, the University of Alberta Student Clinic offers speech-language pathology services provided by supervised students. 

Some people benefit from Assistive Technology tools that support communication when words are difficult to access. The Glenrose I CAN Centre, through Alberta Health Services (AHS), helps adults explore Assistive Technology to support communication. 

Rehabilitation Services may also be available through Alberta Health Services at the CRIS Clinic, which supports adults on their rehabilitation journey.

Many people with aphasia and their families also find reassurance in learning from trusted, easy-to-read resources. Everyday Health offers a clear overview of aphasia, while Mayo Clinic Health System shares gentle communication tips on how to improve communication with a loved one who has aphasia.

Aphasia Canada provides practical communication tips specifically created for people with aphasia and their families, along with support groups and in depth information on Aphasia. 

If you would like more individualized support, Chatty Therapy offers private speech-language pathology services for adults with aphasia and their families. Our therapists work alongside you to reduce the stress around communication and to build strategies that fit your life. We offer in-home and virtual services across Edmonton, Alberta, and you are welcome to book a free 15-minute consultation to see if our services feel right for you.

Whether you are living with aphasia or supporting someone who is, your experiences matter. With understanding, patience, and the right support, communication can become less about finding perfect words and more about connection, dignity, and being heard.