Aphasia is a communication disorder that may occur after a stroke. Those with aphasia may be able to comprehend what’s being said but may not be able to talk or may speak in nonsensical phrases. Some people with aphasia have a difficult time comprehending what they hear. Along with speech therapy, communication apps can be helpful for seniors who are experiencing aphasia. The apps are affordable and easy to use, which can help your senior loved one during recovery.
1. Scene and Heard
This award-winning app uses visual scene communication to help those with aphasia. Users can use premade “scenes” (pictures) or add their own along with customized phrases. The scenes can then be used to communicate a need, tell a story, provide instructions, make a choice, or answer questions. The app uses different types of media to help your loved one with both expressive and receptive communication. Short videos (two minutes or less) can also be taken showing a skill being demonstrated, such as washing hands after using the restroom or buttoning a blouse.
There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to manage if their families opt for professional elder care. Roseville families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while aging in place.
2. MyTalkTools
This app gives your loved one a voice to help him or her communicate with others. It features a grid that can be personalized with images. When the images are tapped, a sequence of words or phrases is heard. The app can help your loved one tell others what he or she needs and helps with his or her own speech and recognition. MyTalkTools is easy to set up and can be used on a computer or any smartphone.
3. Medlert 911+
One of the most frightening scenarios for a senior with aphasia is being unable to communicate in an emergency. Medlert 911+ is a one-touch emergency app that’s easy to use. After installation and setup, a big red dot appears on the home screen. In case of an emergency, pushing the button alerts first responders to your loved one’s location. The app also sends out a message to those on your loved one’s emergency contact list so everyone is aware of the situation and can aid him or her.
Having a caregiver close by can give your loved one even greater peace of mind. If your senior loved one needs hourly or live-in care, Roseville Home Care Assistance can help. Our caregivers can assist with exercise and mobility, prepare nutritious meals, provide timely medication reminders, and help with a wide array of other important daily tasks.
4. TalkPath Therapy
Often used in conjunction with speech therapy, the TalkPath Therapy app can help your loved one as he or she recovers. The app contains more than 11,000 language, speech, and cognitive exercises for those with aphasia. The exercises help users practice and rebuild their speech skills. Additionally, the app features specially designed news stories to keep stroke survivors well-informed and help them practice their reading and comprehension skills.
5. Tapgram
Seniors with family and friends far away can still keep in touch with them through Tapgram. The app allows users to tap on images rather than using a keyboard. The messages can then be posted in text, email, or on a social media feed to connect with others.
These amazing apps can stimulate cognition, boost mood, and make communication easier for senior stroke survivors, and so can having a trained caregiver close by. Seniors can face a variety of challenges as they age, many of which can be mitigated with the help of professional in-home caregivers who provide high-quality homecare. Trust Home Care Assistance to help your elderly loved one age in place safely and comfortably. If your loved one needs help with the challenges of aging, call one of our compassionate Care Managers today at (916) 226-3737.