©RogerBrownPhotographer 2009-2010

What is Aphasia?

Aphasia literally means ‘absence of speech’.

It is the term used to describe the loss of a previously held ability to speak or understand spoken or written language, due to disease or injury to the language area of the brain.  The ability to use gestures and calculate can also be affected.

The experience of aphasia is different for each person. Aphasia can vary from mild difficulties finding words, or reading text, to severe difficulties understanding what other people are saying, and being unable to speak. It is important to know that aphasia is not a loss of intelligence.

Fortunately, following much assistance from carers, professionals and my family, and my own persistence, I am able to return to limited paid work. I am lucky. I am as supporter of the Aphasia Association of NZ Inc.

For further information, please see www.aphasia.org.nz.