#132 Intimacy After Aphasia with Dr. Laura Wolford

Aphasia changes communication, but it can also deeply impact relationships and intimacy—a reality that many couples struggle to navigate. The shift from being romantic partners to caregiver and survivor can feel overwhelming, leading to loss of emotional and physical connection.

In today’s episode, Dr. Laura Wolford—a speech pathologist, researcher, and certified sexuality educator—joins Genevieve Richardson to have an open, honest conversation about intimacy after aphasia.

💡 If you’ve felt disconnected from your partner, unsure how to rebuild closeness, or even afraid to bring up intimacy, this episode is for you. You are not alone. There is hope, and there are ways forward.

Key Discussion Points:

🔹 The Hidden Impact of Aphasia on Intimacy – Aphasia makes communication harder, but it also shifts roles, increases stress, and changes self-identity in ways that affect relationships.
🔹 Breaking Down Barriers – How caregiving responsibilities, emotional exhaustion, and unspoken fears create distance—and how to start bridging the gap.
🔹 Rebuilding Connection Step by Step – Scheduling intentional time together, using nonverbal communication tools, and rediscovering small moments of closeness.
🔹 The Role of Speech Pathologists – How SLPs can help facilitate conversations about intimacy in a way that feels safe and comfortable.
🔹 Dr. Wolford’s Research Study – A first-of-its-kind nationwide study exploring what truly helps people with aphasia and their partners reconnect.

Action Steps to Start Rebuilding Intimacy:

✅ Give Yourself Permission to Talk About It – It’s okay to feel uncertain, but starting the conversation is the first step toward healing.
✅ Prioritize Time Together (Even 20 Minutes) – Scheduling small moments of non-caregiving connection helps rebuild closeness.
✅ Find Alternative Ways to Express Affection – A touch, a gesture, or a shared look can speak volumes when words feel out of reach.
✅ Seek Support & Resources – Whether through speech therapy, research studies, or community support, you don’t have to navigate this alone.

Resources & Links:

🔗 Check out Dr. Wolford’s SpiceInstitute.org for resources on this important topic. 🔗 Join Dr. Wolford’s Research Study on Intimacy via Zoom.  Learn more at: redcap.link/aphasia
🔗 Download the Free Guide: 3 Key Reasons Why Aphasia Recovery Never Stops
🔗 Sign Up for the Free 5-Day Care Partner Email Course: From Chaos to Clarity

💛 You are not alone. Intimacy after aphasia is possible. Take the first step today.

Thank you to our sponsor, LIFE Aphasia Academy®, your go-to resource for expert guidance, practical tools, and community support to uncomplicate aphasia and help you thrive.  Visit their website at https://lifeaphasiaacademy.co.