Finding the Right Form
of Therapy
Like all therapeutic fields, you may find that the practice
of speech therapy can be performed following different philosophies. For
instance, some professionals believe that short yet intensive sessions are more
effective than traditional ones. Additionally, the way in which professionals
approach the actual exercises conducted throughout a session can vary. For this
reason, the first step toward recovering the communication capabilities of your
senior is to find the right therapist for the job. Your loved one's physician
should be able to recommend a therapist who can help your senior achieve their
verbal communication goals.
Understanding the Nature
of the Process
Ultimately, speech therapy can work; however, the extent to
which it can restore your loved one's speaking capabilities will be determined
by how much damage the stroke caused to their brain. As such, it is important
that your family makes small, realistic goals while your senior is going
through the therapeutic process. By expecting too much out of the therapy, you
could discourage your senior and cause them to become frustrated, angry, or
bitter. The best approach is to celebrate each success and move one step at a
time in terms of goal-setting.
Understand the
Difference between Short-Term and Long-Term Success
Therapy will, essentially, help restore the ability of your
loved one to speak. This entails a great deal of work regarding the rebuilding
of damaged brain tissue. The brain is a flexible, adaptable organ, to be sure,
but it is not always possible to completely restore speaking abilities if a
stroke has caused too much destruction. For this reason, it is important to
maintain clear communication with your loved one's therapist regarding their
progress.
Very educational and beneficial to patients and their families. Thank you for your ongoing dedication to ElderCare!
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