What to Ask the Doctor About Aphasia

Initial interactions with your loved one’s doctor(s) may be rushed, overwhelming, or intimidating, especially if you have not heard the term aphasia before. It may be helpful for you to prepare a list of questions for your loved one’s doctor. The following list of questions was comprised by a group of caregivers of adults with aphasia.

• How long will my loved one have aphasia?
• Is there a cure for aphasia?
• Will my loved one talk again?
• Will my loved one regain his/her physical functions?
• What are the different types of aphasia and what does that mean for my loved one’s recovery?
• What is the difference between aphasia and apraxia?
• What are the next steps for my loved one?
• Can I leave my loved one alone?
• What does each professional on his/her healthcare team do?
• What treatments are available for aphasia and which do you recommend?
• What services are available for my loved one (therapy, home health assistance, etc.)?
• Are there ways to help my loved one understand others or communicate more effectively?
• What resources do you have for support groups in the area?