A cognitive- communication impairment can result from a traumatic brain injury (TBI), a stroke, an infection, a brain tumor, or a degenerative disease such as , Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis (MS), Alzheimer’s disease, or another type of dementia. Since the brain is controlled by various structures within the brain, any damage to the brain can cause a cognitive-communication impairment. Treatment plans are created based on the severity of the impairment and individual needs of the patient and family considering each case is unique. Speech-language pathologists work with clients and family members to restore function, ensure safety in natural environment, facilitate communication, compensate for deficits and educate on the disorder and its treatment. In our experience, working with clients within their natural environment (home/community) has helped in transfer of learned skills outside of therapy sessions.
A COGNITIVE-COMMUNICATION EVALUATION AND THERAPY IS RECOMMENDED IF YOU OR YOUR LOVED ONE HAS ANY OF THE FOLLOWING SYMPTOMS:
DIFFICULTY FUNCTIONING INDEPENDENTLY DUE TO DIFFICULTY WITH:
Anticipating consequences of own actions
Poor organization, with limited problem solving and judgment
Limited awareness of extent of difficulties; exhibits socially inappropriate behavior
Concepts of time and money
Self-disciplining and self-monitoring to follow rules
Changing routine or schedule; difficulty learning new rules
Decreased or limited communication due to:
Difficulty selecting appropriate words and remembering names
Limited memory and/or knowledge of current events and/or personal history
Responses during conversation may be repetitive, redundant, or unrelated
Inability to appropriately change topic, initiate, or end a conversation
Missing or misunderstanding humor
Difficulty understanding nonverbal communication (i.e., facial expressions and/or body language)
Difficulty understanding abstract information
Although our loved ones may not be present in our reality, it's important to look past the diagnosis and meet them where they are in order to connect on a deeper level.
DIFFICULTY MANAGING HOME OR MAINTAINING A JOB OR BUSINESS DUE TO DIFFICULTY:
Planning and completing activities of daily living (ADLs)
Following simple/complex directions
Comprehending or applying abstract written information
Analyzing personal and/or job related problems
Identifying and applying solutions to problems and/or situations
Managing multiple responsibilities simultaneously
Managing emotions (especially anxiety, frustration, or anger) related to performance difficulties
Making, following, and modifying plans as needed
Understanding and managing finances and/or medications
