Speech therapy often can help those affected by stroke

language as possible, teaching how to compensate for lost language skills, and learning other methods of communicating.

Speech-language pathologists, sometimes called speech therapists, use various techniques to improve communication. After an evaluation by a speechlanguage pathologist, rehabilitation can include working one on one with a speech-language pathologist and participating in groups with others who have aphasia. The group setting can be particularly helpful because it offers a low-stress environment where people can practice communication skills, such as starting a conversation, speaking in turn and clarifying misunderstandings.

A speech-language pathologist also can direct your mother to resources she can use outside of speech-language therapy sessions, such as computer programs and mobile apps, that aid in relearning words and sounds. Props and communication aids, such as pictures, notecards with common phrases, and a small pad of paper and pen, often are encouraged as part of speechlanguage rehabilitation and can improve a person’s ability to convey his or her thoughts.

You, other family members and friends also can help your mother rebuild her communication abilities. Consistently include her in conversations. Give her plenty of time to talk. Don’t finish her sentences for her or correct errors. Keep distractions to a minimum by turning off the TV and other electronic devices while you talk. Allow time for relaxed conversation.

Recovering language skills can be a slow process. With patience and persistence, however, most people can make significant progress, even if they don’t completely return to the level of function they had before a stroke.

Continue to encourage your mother to make an appointment with her health care provider to discuss speech-language therapy. They should be able to help find a speech-language pathologist who has experience working with people who have had a stroke.

— Heather Clark, Ph.D., Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota

Mayo Clinic Q & A is an educational resource and doesn’t replace regular medical care. Email a question to MayoClinicQ&A@ mayo.edu.