CAREGIVERS APHASIA I.Q. QUIZ

Caregivers are a Primary Force In Proper Care and Support for People With Aphasia

People with aphasia are unable to advocate for the themselves, leaving their caregivers responsible for making decisions about medical treatment and multitude of lifestyle issues. Determination and a commitment to finding the best possible care for the person with aphasia are essential in aiding the recovery of language and communication skills.

Are there ways one can enhance their care giving skills? How can caregivers improve the quality of life for the person with aphasia? How can caregivers get the education, resources and support they need to provide the best care? The following quiz will be helpful in assessing your skills as a caregiver.

1. If a person who is diagnosed with aphasia has not recovered their communication skills within 2 years after the initial brain trauma/stroke, it is likely they will not recover those skills in the future.
   True       False

2. Aphasia affects a person's intellect.
   True       False

3. Only the elderly, who frequently suffer from stroke, are at risk of acquiring aphasia.
   True       False

4. Aphasia impairs both the expression and understanding of language as well as reading and writing.
   True       False

5. When speaking to a person with aphasia, it is helpful to correct their speech and interrupt them if they are hesitating.
   True       False

6. When a person with aphasia is having difficulty with language, you should encourage any type of communication, whether it be gesturing, pointing, or drawing.
   True       False

7. Encouraging involvement with activities outside the home, such as support groups, will maintain skills and confidence in people with aphasia.
   True       False

8. Including the person with aphasia in conversations is a good idea.
   True       False

9. When speaking to a person with aphasia, minimize as many distractions (such as a blaring radio or television) as possible.
   True       False

10. Caregivers benefit from special training and support to assist in taking care of a person with aphasia.
    True       False

1. False - It takes years to recover communication skills. While many skills may be recovered in the first 2 years following stroke, skills can return at any time with perseverance and speech therapy.
2. False - Aphasia does not affect the individual's intellect. It is the process of receiving that information that is disrupted.
3. False - People of any age can acquire aphasia through a variety of brain injuries. While aphasia is more prevalent in the elderly who suffer from stroke more frequently, aphasia can be acquired by people of any age.
4. True - Aphasia does not only affect spoken language - it affects reading and writing as well. Many people with aphasia are reluctant to go to restaurants because they are nervous about reading menus. A good tip for people with aphasia who are reluctant to eat out: Print out an online copy of the menu and become familiar with it before visiting the restaurant.
5. False - When speaking to a person with aphasia, avoid correcting any speech or finishing sentences. Patience is one of the caregivers' most valuable qualities.
6. True - Any communication is good communication. If the person is unable to find the word they are looking for, assist them in finding other ways of conveying what they are trying to say.
7. True - Isolation is widespread among those who have aphasia. Find activities that take place outside the home, such as classes or stroke clubs as meeting others who share the same problems will ease embarrassment and promote self-confidence.
8. True - Including the individual in conversations will boost self-esteem and encourage he or she to start conversations with less fear.
9. True - Distractions, such as blaring radios or televisions, can make it difficult for the person with aphasia to concentrate on what they are trying to say.
10. True - Caregivers can benefit from additional information to sensitize them to people with aphasia. Caregivers can also take part in their own support groups to express feelings and learn positive techniques useful in attending to the needs of people with aphasia.