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More about reading, writing and aphasia
"I couldn't read and that was a frightening thing to me because I obviously could read before. People would keep bringing in these magazines and I said ... noises ... um ... er ... thanks and I couldn't read them."
Many people who have aphasia are surprised when they find they can't read or write as before.
Some people feel embarrassed and ashamed about this.
Reading and writing are language skills, like talking. They are both controlled by the same part of the brain.
That part of your brain has been injured by the stroke.
When you have aphasia you may struggle to read and write.
As time goes on, many people find practical ways of making writing and reading easier.
What you can do
Reading
- Many people enjoy looking through newspapers, magazines and books, even though they may be difficult to read.
- Some people get others to help them with reading important letters and documents.
- Tape recorded books and newspapers can be very useful.
- Some people find print easier to read than handwriting.
- Large print is often easier to read.
Writing
- Some people get others to write for them, or to check their writing.
- Some people make a first draft, make corrections, then copy out a final version.
- Portable spell-checkers are useful if you're worried about spelling.
- A computer (word processor) can make it easier to write, although you have to learn how to use it.
Computers (word processors)
Some word processors are voice-operated. This means they can write out what you say.
Most word processors can check what you have written for spelling mistakes. They can help you to make corrections.
However, word processors can't help you find the words you want or organise what you want to write.
Some people with aphasia use computers to send and receive email messages.
They like the way they can take time to get the message right before they send it.
CD Roms can be useful for getting information if reading is difficult.
Getting more help
Speech and language therapist
- Information, assessment and therapy
Talking Books
- Has over 10,000 books on tape
(0845) 762 6843
PO Box 173,
Peterborough PE2 6WS
Listening Books
- Provides tapes of modern and classic fiction (membership fee)
(020) 7407 9417
12 Lant Street
London SE1 1QH
Talking Newspaper Association
- Newspapers/magazines on tape
(01435) 866102
The National Recording Centre
10 Brownings Road
Heathfield
East Sussex TN21 8DB
Big Print Ltd.
- A large national weekly newspaper in large print
(0800) 124 007
PO Box 308
Warrington WA1 1JE
Adult literacy classes
- Local council in phone book
- Tutors provide support and help
- Reading materials for adults
Your local library
- Has a stock of large print books
Avanti Books
- Wide range of accessible reading material
(01438) 745 876
8 Parsons Green
Boulton Road
Stevenage
Herts SG1 4QG
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