Stroke survivors must watch out for hidden language disorder, Speech Pathologist warns

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

A speech-language pathologist, Abimbola Fagbemi, has called for greater public awareness of a little-known but devastating consequence of stroke known as aphasia, a communication disorder that robs survivors of the ability to speak, understand, read or write normally.

Fagbemi, a certified Speech-Language Pathologist based in Ibadan, spent years helping patients recover speech and language skills lost after a neurological disorder.

His work, which includes therapy for adults with dysarthria, dysphagia and aphasia, underscores a growing need for education on post-stroke communication challenges.

Speaking with our correspondent, Fagbemi said that while most Nigerians now recognise physical impairments from stroke, such as paralysis, only a few understand the silent communication disorders many survivors face.

“When a person experiences a stroke or a cerebrovascular accident, the areas of the brain responsible for language are often affected, leading to a communication disorder known as aphasia. Depending on the location of the brain injury, aphasia can make it difficult to speak, understand others, read, or write. These communication challenges often go beyond words, but it also affects the person’s confidence and ability to engage in social interactions. Everyday activities such as conversations with family, participating in community life, or returning to work can become difficult. It affects many stroke survivors and can significantly reduce quality of life if left untreated” he explained.

Aphasia, a condition commonly caused by left-brain stroke, significantly diminishes quality of life and social participation.

It often coexists with other post-stroke complications such as dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) and depression, which together can create complex rehabilitation needs for survivors.

Recent research has shown that these factors significantly influence quality of life in persons with aphasia, emphasising the urgency of integrated care.

Fagbemi highlighted that early intervention and tailored evidence-based speech therapy can make a marked difference.

He stressed that therapy plans must be evidence-based and personalised to a patient’s specific impairments, warning that a one-size-fits-all approach often fails those struggling most with communication.

His message is particularly urgent for adults who suffer a stroke later in life.

“We must do more to educate family members, caregivers and clinicians about the signs of aphasia,” he said, adding that many survivors are unable to fully participate in society because they lack access to appropriate therapy.

Fagbemi, who also advocates for persons with disabilities and shares educational content on communication disorders online, said the stigma around language impairment must be overcome to improve rehabilitation outcomes.

“Communication is fundamental to human connection — when someone loses that, their world shrinks,” he stated.

He also called for more public awareness campaigns, professional training and policy action to expand access to speech-language therapy services across Nigeria.

“Stroke survivors deserve the best chance to regain their voices,” he stressed.