Understanding Aphasia
Caregiver Challenges
Caregivers play a critical function in the life of the person
with aphasia. Caregiving is a complex role full of highs and
lows, but often lacking in recognition and support.
In early 2023, we surveyed more than 900 caregivers — spouses,
children, parents, siblings, friends, and more — to better understand
their experiences and challenges.
Who are the Aphasia Caregivers?
72% female27% male1% prefer not to answer1% non-binary65% spouse/partner13% parent9% child5% sibling8% other
What do Aphasia Caregivers do?
I help the person with aphasia with the following:
Communication Assistance
90%
Transportation
81%
Food preparation
79%
Providing medication
75%
Technology Assistance
74%
Dressing and Grooming
43%
Bathing or Personal Hygiene
42%
Feeding
17%
NAVIGATING RELATIONSHIP CHALLENGESAphasia is a complex condition. It’s not uncommon for people with aphasia and caregivers to struggle with adapting to a new way of life.
How have loved ones changed since developing aphasia?
55% are more withdrawn/isolated50% are more worried and anxious44% become angry more easily
45% of caregivers spend less time communicating with their loved one than before the onset of aphasia
Aphasia can be a lifechanging diagnosis, and its effects can alter relationships significantly for both the person with aphasia and their caregiver.
Where relationships got worse for caregivers:
32%
Friends
25%
The person with aphasia
23%
Family members
23%
People in general
14%
Medical professionals
Aphasia caregivers need support. The responses demonstrate that many have feelings of isolation, anxiety, and loneliness.
What do caregivers want?
I would love to have access to the following resources:38% information about support groups for caregivers34% online aphasia communities29% online caregiver support groups
LINGRAPHICA CAN HELP:
Schedule a Free Consultation
We’re here to help. Schedule an appointment
to talk to one of our representatives about Lingraphica communication devices, apps, or services.
Join a Live Webinar
Lingraphica hosts live webinars to help stroke survivors and their families gain a better understanding of the brain, strokes, and aphasia.
Join The Community
The Aphasia Community connects those living
with aphasia and their loved ones in one safe online community. Browse resources, start conversations, and connect with others with aphasia.
Virtual Connections
Support and conversation groups facilitated by speech-language pathologists and other aphasia experts are available 7 days a week for free. Browse the upcoming sessions today and enroll in a caregiver-specific session.