Written by Nicole Van Dort, CDA
Every June in Canada, we recognize Brain Injury Awareness Month. The goal of this campaign is to increase awareness and understanding of brain injuries, including conditions like aphasia. This year’s campaign focuses on the full journey of brain injury including:
- Rehabilitation and recovery
- Realities individuals face every day
- Urgent need for recognition and systemic support[i]
What is a Brain Injury?
Brain injuries can be:
- Traumatic (TBI) caused by falls, accidents, sports injuries, etc.
- Acquired (ABI) caused by strokes, tumors, infections, etc.
Many symptoms are invisible such as changes in a person’s communication, memory, and/or behaviour, which is why awareness is so important. [ii]
What is Aphasia?
Aphasia is a communication disorder caused by damage to parts of the brain responsible for language. It can affect all forms of language including speaking, understanding speech, reading, and writing.[iii]
People with aphasia may struggle to find the right words, speak in short or incomplete sentences, have difficulty understanding others, and/or have difficulty reading or writing. This can lead to social isolation, frustration and/or anxiety, difficulty returning to work or daily activities. Each person’s experience is unique—some may have mild difficulties, while others experience more severe communication challenges.
Aphasia is not a problem with intelligence—it only affects how a person uses and understands language. [iv]
Some common causes include:
- Stroke (most common cause)
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Brain tumors or infections
About one-third of stroke survivors experience aphasia.
How does a Speech-Language Pathologist help?
Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) are healthcare professionals trained to assess and treat communication disorders.
What SLPs Do:
- Assess communication abilities (speech, language, comprehension)
- Develop personalized therapy plans based on individual goals
- Provide therapy and compensatory strategies to rebuild skills and support
How does a Communicative Disorders Assistant (CDA) help?
Communicative Disorders Assistants (CDAs) work under the supervision of SLPs and are an essential part of the care team.
What CDAs Do:
- Help implement therapy plans created by SLPs
- Provide hands-on practice and support during sessions
- Assist with screening and activities to build communication skills
- Prepare therapy materials and track progress
Why is Awareness so Important?
Brain Injury Awareness Month reminds us that:
- Communication disorders are often invisible
- People with cognitive & communication difficulties deserve understanding and inclusion
- Access to services like SLPs and CDAs is essential
- Together we can build more inclusive communities
For more information on how you can support those living with brain injuries and aphasia, please visit the references below or speak to your SLP/CDA.
References:
[i] Brain Injury Canada. Brain Injury Awareness Month. [braininjurycanada.ca]
[ii] Ontario Brain Injury Association. Brain Injury Awareness Information. [obia.ca]
[iii] National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD). Aphasia. [nidcd.nih.gov]
[iv] Speech-Language & Audiology Canada / ARBI. Understanding Aphasia. [arbi.ca]