SPEECH THERAPY CAN HELP BEYOND THE INITIAL STAGES OF RECOVERY

Beyond the Initial Recovery: Maximising Communication and Quality of Life After Stroke or Brain Injury 

When a stroke or brain injury occurs, the early months of rehabilitation are often seen as the critical window for recovery. While it is true that many improvements happen in the first six months, research increasingly shows that progress can continue well beyond this period with the right support, strategies, and ongoing engagement in meaningful activities (Brady et al., 2016).

Neuroplasticity: The Brain’s Ongoing Ability to Change

Neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to reorganise and form new connections—does not stop after the early phase of recovery. Studies have shown that with consistent practice and targeted therapy, individuals can continue to regain language and communication abilities years after their stroke or brain injury (Kleim & Jones, 2008). This means that recovery is not confined to the initial rehabilitation period, and individuals should be encouraged to seek ongoing therapy and community engagement.

The Life Participation Approach to Aphasia (LPAA)

One approach that has gained increasing recognition is the Life Participation Approach to Aphasia (LPAA). This person-centred model emphasises the importance of helping individuals with communication difficulties engage in their chosen activities and social interactions (Chapey et al., 2008). Unlike traditional impairment-based models, LPAA focuses on:

• Supporting real-world communication: Therapy is designed to enhance participation in everyday conversations, work, social events, and family life.
• Involving family and community: Training loved ones and caregivers to facilitate effective communication is crucial.
• Empowering individuals: Encouraging confidence, self-advocacy, and the use of tools like communication books or apps to aid expression if required.

By focusing on participation rather than just impairment, LPAA helps people regain independence and maintain fulfilling relationships despite communication difficulties. Speech therapy with an LPAA approach can help you return to the activities you love.

Strategies for Ongoing Improvement

1. Intensive and Ongoing Therapy

Research has demonstrated that ongoing therapy, including high-intensity language practice and conversational therapy, leads to long-term improvements (Breitenstein et al., 2017). Individuals benefit from:

• Structured speech and language therapy
• Home-based practice using therapy apps
• Group therapy and conversation groups for peer support

2. Communication Partner Training

Improving communication is a two-way process. Training family members, caregivers, and healthcare professionals in supported conversation techniques can make interactions more successful and less frustrating (Simmons-Mackie et al., 2010). Techniques include:

• Giving extra time for responses
• Using clear, simple language
• Incorporating gestures, writing, or visual aids

3. Technology and Alternative Communication Methods

For some individuals, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) tools, such as communication apps or speech-generating devices, can be life-changing. Research supports the use of AAC to improve participation and quality of life for people with severe aphasia or apraxia (Beukelman & Light, 2020).

4. Engaging in Meaningful Activities

Participation in hobbies, volunteering, and social groups fosters confidence and motivation. Whether it’s joining a book club, taking up painting, writing poetry, learning baking or reconnecting with former interests, continued engagement in life roles plays a key role in long-term recovery. Participation in these activities with communication support in place can improve quality and enjoyment of life. AK Speech Therapy can offer individualised therapy to help you return to what you love.

Takeaway: Recovery is a Lifelong Process

While early rehabilitation is important, recovery does not end after the first year. With ongoing support, therapy, and meaningful participation, individuals with stroke or brain injury can continue to make gains in communication and quality of life. If you or a loved one would like to explore therapy options beyond the initial recovery phase, contact AK Speech Therapy today to discuss how we can support you in achieving your goals.

References

• Beukelman, D., & Light, J. (2020). Augmentative and Alternative Communication: Supporting Children and Adults with Complex Communication Needs. Brookes Publishing.
• Brady, M. C., Kelly, H., Godwin, J., Enderby, P., & Campbell, P. (2016). Speech and language therapy for aphasia following stroke. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2016(6).
• Breitenstein, C., Grewe, T., Flöel, A., Ziegler, W., Springer, L., Martus, P., & Huber, W. (2017). Intensive speech and language therapy in patients with chronic aphasia after stroke: A randomised, open-label, blinded-endpoint, controlled trial in a health-care setting. The Lancet, 389(10078), 1528-1538.
• Chapey, R., Duchan, J. F., Elman, R. J., Garcia, L. J., Kagan, A., Lyon, J. G., & Simmons-Mackie, N. (2008). Life Participation Approach to Aphasia: A Statement of Values for the Future. The ASHA Leader.
• Kleim, J. A., & Jones, T. A. (2008). Principles of experience-dependent neural plasticity: Implications for rehabilitation after brain damage. Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing Research, 51(1), S225-S239.
• Simmons-Mackie, N., Raymer, A., Armstrong, E., Holland, A., & Cherney, L. R. (2010). Communication partner training in aphasia: A systematic review. Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, 91(12), 1814-1837.