Is Age a Predictor of Speech Recovery Following Stroke and Aphasia
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| Does Age Affect Prognosis for Recovery of Speech After Stroke |
However, the scientific and medical communities have been pursuing research to determine whether age is a factor that will influence the prognois for improvement of speech. The design of their research may also affect the conclusions. Those who study stroke and aphasia are now using not only behavioral and speech measurements to look at a person's improvement of speaking over time, but also using various brain scans and other scientific measurements which look at the site and location of the lesion at the time of stroke, and in follow up tests.
Does Age Affect the Prognosis for Recovery After Stroke? What Should I Believe?
The Conclusion of the VA Study of Age and Speech Recovery After Stroke
- The VA Study concluded that age is not a significant predictor of outcome or amount of change a person with aphasia or apraxia will be capable of with speech and language therapy. Wertz & Dronkers (1990)
- In reviewing these studies there are factors which may influence their conclusions. However, within the fields of rehabilitation today this is an acceptable conclusion. However there are always skeptics. Others may argue that motivation, the amount of speech and language stimulation and the personal behaviors of the patient and family are of equal importance.
- This study may also helps us understand that it is never too late to do speech and language therapy for those with aphasia, whether young or old.
- For those who wish to be mentored to do speech and language stimulation at home, or for those who wish to pursue a video course in The Teaching of Talking Method, please learn more at teachingoftalking.com
