Aphasia: when communication doesn’t come easily

To many, the ability to understand and speak a language seems to be an innate human ability. The vast majority of the population utilizes some shape or form of communication, whether through writing, speaking, or hand gestures. Our society is built upon the assumption that individuals are capable of understanding signs on the street and following spoken commands. Language is an essential part of humanity, and has been since ancient times. There are, however, individuals for whom language does not come with ease. Those who suffer from communication disorders are not always gifted with the ability to speak. One communication disorder, aphasia, is particularly destructive to one’s ability to communicate. Aphasia is generally defined as a disruption in understanding or creating speech, usually as a result of brain damage.1 Within the past few centuries, the understanding and efficacy of treatments of aphasia have drastically increased; this has ultimately led to promising results for future aphasic patients.