LIFE Beyond Aphasia

#139 How to Talk to Kids About Aphasia & Stroke Recovery with Lisa Samson

When a parent or loved one experiences aphasia after a stroke, it can be difficult for the entire family—especially children—to understand what’s happening. In this episode, Lisa Samson, an experienced speech-language pathologist and author of Listen with Your Heart: Helping Kids Understand Stroke and Aphasia, shares how families can support children through aphasia recovery. We explore practical ways to explain communication changes to kids, how her book provides an accessible tool for families, and strategies for fostering understanding and connection at home.
 
🔑 Key Takeaways:✅ How aphasia impacts the entire family, including children✅ Why kids need simple, honest explanations about communication changes✅ The inspiration behind Listen with Your Heart: Helping Kids Understand Stroke and Aphasia and how it helps families✅ Tips for care partners to encourage connection and understanding
 
💡 Action Step:Take a moment to talk with your child about aphasia. Use simple language, encourage questions, and reassure them that communication happens in many ways. Consider using picture books or visual aids like Listen with Your Heart to support their understanding. Amazon link: https://a.co/d/eTgK0Aj
 
 
📌 Want to maximize recovery? Download our free guide: 3 Key Reasons Aphasia Therapy Never Stops📌 Care partner support is here! Join our free 5-day email course: Chaos to Clarity
 
✨ Sponsor Acknowledgment:This episode is brought to you by LIFE Aphasia Academy®, your go-to resource for expert-led education on aphasia, communication strategies, and connection.

#138 Right Hemisphere Stroke: Changes in Understanding & Response

"You ask a simple question, and instead of an answer, you get silence—or a response that doesn’t quite make sense. It’s not about hearing loss or forgetting words. The brain is working differently now.
In this episode, we uncover how right hemisphere strokes impact thinking, communication, and emotional expression—and why survivors may struggle to follow conversations, respond appropriately, or recognize social cues. We also explore common personality changes, including impulsivity, reduced self-awareness, and shifts in emotional expression.
If you’re a care partner, you’ll learn concrete strategies to improve communication, reduce frustration, and support your loved one’s recovery.
💡 Recovery is always possible! Download 3 Key Reasons Aphasia Progress Never Stops for practical strategies to support ongoing progress.
📌 Care partners, you’re not alone. Get step-by-step guidance with our free 5-day email course, From Chaos to Clarity—designed to help you find balance and connection.
💙 A Special Thanks to Our Sponsor – LIFE Aphasia Academy® At LIFE Aphasia Academy®, we empower stroke survivors and care partners with the tools they need for communication success.
💡 Next episode: We’ll explore how right hemisphere strokes impact emotions and relationships—and what care partners can do to bridge the gap. Stay tuned!
🎧 Listen now and access stroke recovery resources at LIFE Aphasia Academy®!

#137 Aphasia, Caregiving & the Words We’re Afraid to Say

💭 "What happens when the words you need to say the most are the hardest to speak?"
Aphasia doesn’t just steal words—it changes relationships. Care partners and stroke survivors often hold back what they really want to say, fearing it won’t be understood, will hurt too much, or won’t change anything. But keeping quiet only deepens the disconnect.
In this episode, we’re breaking the silence. We’re saying the things that often go unsaid—the frustrations, fears, and unspoken truths between care partners and people with aphasia. Most importantly, we’ll talk about how to bridge the gap and start conversations that bring clarity, understanding, and healing.
🎯 Action Step: Say ONE thing to your partner that you’ve been holding back. Then wait. Because connection starts with a single moment of honesty.
🔥 Resources to Take This Further:
For Care Partners: Take the first step toward balance → 5 Days to a More Balanced Caregiving Life
For Stroke Survivors: Recovery never stops—here’s why → 3 Key Reasons Aphasia Recovery Never Stops
Expert Support & Community: Your go-to source → LIFE Aphasia Academy®
If this episode speaks to you, share it with someone who needs to hear it. Let’s change the way we communicate about aphasia—together.

#136 How to Get Things Done When Your Brain Won’t Stay on Task

 
Ever start a task, get distracted, and never finish? Whether it’s forgetting why you walked into a room, struggling to focus, or feeling overwhelmed by decisions, executive function plays a huge role in daily life.
Many people don’t realize that stroke, PPA, Parkinson’s, and other neurological conditions can impact executive function—even without a formal diagnosis. When the brain’s ability to plan, focus, and follow through is disrupted, everyday tasks can feel impossible.
In this episode, we cover: ✅ What executive function is and how it affects daily tasks ✅ Why it’s often impaired after stroke, aphasia, PPA, or Parkinson’s ✅ Real-life examples of people overcoming these challenges ✅ Practical strategies to help you stay on task and get things done
💡 Noticing these challenges? Talk it over with a friend or spouse. Then, pick one strategy from this episode and try it.
🎧 Listen now and let us know: What’s your biggest struggle with staying on task?
🔹 GET YOUR FREE RESOURCES
📌 For People with Aphasia: Progress is always possible! Download 3 Key Reasons Aphasia Progress Never Stops for practical strategies to keep moving forward.
📌 For Care Partners: Caregiving is tough, but you’re not alone. Our free 5-day email course, "From Chaos to Clarity" provides practical steps for more balance and connection.
📌 A Special Thanks to Our Sponsor – LIFE Aphasia Academy® At LIFE Aphasia Academy®, we empower people with aphasia to achieve their communication goals. That’s why we created the free guide, 3 Key Reasons Aphasia Progress Never Stops, to provide hope and strategies for ongoing progress.
🎧 Listen now and let us know: What’s your biggest struggle with staying on task?

#135 From Survivor to Aphasia Ambassador with Phil Oxendine

In this inspiring episode, Genevieve Richardson sits down with Phil Oxendine, a stroke survivor turned National Aphasia Association Ambassador. Phil shares his incredible journey—from waking up in a hospital, unable to communicate, to becoming an outspoken advocate using YouTube and virtual connections to empower others with aphasia.
Phil and Genevieve explore: ✅ The power of neuroplasticity and how consistent practice helped Phil regain his speech. ✅ The importance of storytelling—why Phil is building a community where people with aphasia can share their experiences. ✅ How Phil uses YouTube as a platform for aphasia awareness and connection. ✅ His advocacy work with virtual aphasia support groups and the National Aphasia Association. ✅ Self-improvement and resilience—how pushing past discomfort can unlock progress.
🎧 Tune in to hear Phil’s inspiring story and why he believes "If you don’t use your voice, you lose it."
Key Takeaways
💡 Your voice matters—Sharing your experience can inspire others. 💡 Recovery is ongoing—Progress happens with daily effort and engagement. 💡 Find your passion—Doing what you love can accelerate neuroplasticity. 💡 Connection is key—Surround yourself with supportive communities.
📌 Phil’s Resources
🎥 Phil’s YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/@AphasiaP 📝 Want to be interviewed on Phil’s YouTube? Apply here: Phil's Guest Form 🔎 Research Opportunities for People with Aphasia: View Research Opportunities
 🎬 Want to start your own YouTube channel? 📹 How to Make a YouTube Video For Beginners: Watch here 📹 How to Create a YouTube Channel in 2025: Watch here
📌 Additional LIFE Speech Pathology Resources
📥 Free download: 3 Key Reasons Why Aphasia Recovery Never Stops 📥 For spouses and care partners: Free 5-Day Care Partner Email Course: From Chaos to Clarity
💬 What part of Phil’s story resonated with you? Drop a comment! 👍 If you found this episode helpful, LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE to spread awareness!

#134 HYLANE Therapy and a New Path for Aphasia Recovery

Can stroke and aphasia recovery go beyond traditional therapy?
In this episode, Dr. Robert Hedaya, founder of Whole Psychiatry, shares how HYLANE Therapy helps rewire the brain for better speech and cognitive recovery. We’ll explore how different brain networks are involved in aphasia, how HYLANE Therapy works, and real-life success stories of people making progress.
Topics Covered: ✔️ How the brain heals after a stroke ✔️ The role of HYLANE Therapy in aphasia recovery ✔️ Success stories from real patients
Action Step:
Learn more about HYLANE Therapy at Whole Psychiatry.
🎯 Want to learn more about Dr. Hedaya’s HYLANE Therapy?Visit Whole Psychiatry: https://wholepsychiatry.com
💡 For Stroke Survivors: Recovery doesn’t stop when therapy ends! Download 3 Key Reasons Aphasia Progress Never Stops and take control of your recovery journey.📥 Download your FREE guide here: https://dolifespeechpathology.com/f/neuroplasticity
💌 For Care Partners: Overwhelmed? The Chaos to Clarity Email Course gives you one simple action a day for 5 days to help you regain balance.📩 Sign up for free here: https://dolifespeechpathology.com/f/from-chaos-to-clarity-email-course
🔔 Never Miss an Episode!Subscribe to the Listen for LIFE Aphasia Podcast for more expert insights, practical tips, and inspiring recovery stories.
✅ If you found this episode helpful, please share, subscribe, and leave a review!
This episode is sponsored by LIFE Aphasia Academy®, providing expert resources for stroke survivors and care partners. Visit LifeAphasiaAcademy.co for free tools and support.

#133 Home Aphasia Therapy: Catalogs and Fishing Rod

Did you know that flipping through a catalog or dreaming about your perfect fishing rod can be a powerful therapy tool? In this episode, we dive into creative and fun ways to take charge of your aphasia recovery at home. Whether you’re using a catalog to practice naming and reading or exploring your favorite hobby to rebuild communication skills, progress is always possible.
Recovery doesn’t stop when therapy ends. You have the tools to keep growing—and they might be right on your kitchen counter. We’ll share actionable steps, like saving catalogs, turning hobbies into therapy, and keeping progress moving in ways that feel meaningful to you.
This episode is sponsored by LIFE Aphasia Academy®. Recovery is a journey, not a destination, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Visit us at LIFEAphasiaAcademy.co to find practical resources and encouragement.
Action Steps & Free Resources:
📥 For People with Aphasia (PWA): Download the free guide Reconnecting Beyond Words for practical tips to help you stay connected. Click here to grab your guide.
📧 For Care Partners (CPs): Feeling overwhelmed? Sign up for the free email course, Chaos to Clarity, to gain confidence and control. Sign up here.
 
Tune in now and learn how to make therapy fun, personal, and part of your everyday life. Progress starts today!

#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.

#131 How Holistic Speech Therapy Rebuilds Intimacy After Aphasia

S-E-X. Yep, we’re talking about it! But intimacy is about so much more than just sex—it’s about connection, trust, and feeling valued by your partner. After a stroke and aphasia, that connection can feel out of reach.
In this episode of Listen for LIFE, Genevieve Richardson, speech-language pathologist and founder of LIFE Aphasia Academy®, dives into how speech therapy can help couples rebuild communication and intimacy. From starting important conversations to finding new ways to connect beyond words, Genevieve shares practical steps for breaking the caregiver/roommate dynamic and rediscovering closeness.
You’ll learn:
Why speech therapy is about more than just words—it’s about connection.
How starting a conversation about intimacy can rebuild trust.
Small steps to reconnect emotionally and physically with your partner.
Action Steps from This Episode:
Take 5-10 minutes to reflect on what intimacy means to you right now. Write down your thoughts and ask yourself:
What’s missing in our relationship?
What’s one small way we can reconnect this week?
Share your reflection with your partner—either verbally, through a gesture, or in a written note. Small steps can create big shifts.
We Need Your Input!This episode is part of a larger conversation about intimacy after aphasia. I’ll be interviewing Dr. Laura Wolford, an expert in SLP and intimacy, in an upcoming episode. What questions or topics do you want us to explore?
Please share your thoughts anonymously using this Google Form. Your input will help shape future episodes and provide support to couples navigating similar challenges.
Additional Resources:You, the care partner, may not even have intimacy on your radar right now—and that’s okay. Let’s take an interim step.
Join our free 5-day email course designed to help you move from caregiver to care partner, a subtle but critical shift that often lays the foundation for rebuilding intimacy. Think you don’t have time? Each day’s lesson takes just 15 minutes.
What would change if you do nothing? Let’s explore that together. Sign up here.
Intimacy might look different after aphasia, but it’s not out of reach. Let’s start the conversation.

#130 What Happens to Sex and Intimacy After Aphasia

What happens to sex when aphasia takes away your words? Is sex the same as intimacy? And can intimacy survive or even grow when communication feels impossible?
In this episode, we explore the continuum of intimacy and how couples can rebuild connection after aphasia. Whether it’s emotional closeness, physical touch, or shared activities, intimacy isn’t all-or-nothing – it’s about taking small, meaningful steps forward.
 
We want to hear from you! Your thoughts, questions, and stories will help shape an upcoming episode with Dr. Laura Wolford. Share your input anonymously through this Google Form.

#129 Everyday Home Therapy - How a Recipe Helps Aphasia Recovery

Everyday Home Therapy: How a Recipe Can Boost Your Aphasia Recovery Can a simple recipe help you rebuild your communication skills? Yes, it can! In this episode of the Listen for LIFE Aphasia Podcast, we dive into how everyday activities, like following a recipe, can support your stroke recovery by harnessing neuroplasticity—the brain’s amazing ability to adapt and rewire itself.
This is the first episode in our What’s Possible series, designed to empower stroke and aphasia survivors with practical, achievable ways to improve your speech, language, and thinking skills. Discover how something as simple as a recipe can help you practice fluency, memory, comprehension, and more—all while strengthening your brain one step at a time.
Key Takeaways
What is Neuroplasticity? Understand how your brain can rebuild connections and why small, purposeful actions every day are essential for recovery.
5 Creative Ways to Use a Recipe for Therapy Explore how recipes can help with reading, writing, memory, sequencing, and even social connection.
Real-Life Examples to Try at Home
Gradual Reading: Improve fluency by starting small and building confidence step-by-step.
Writing from Memory: Practice recalling ingredients and steps to boost memory and writing skills.
Your Action Step
Print out a recipe and try one of the strategies shared in this episode. Ask yourself:
What worked?
What didn’t work?
How could you adjust it to make it easier or more fun? Remember, small, consistent actions lead to big progress in your recovery!
For Stroke Survivors
Ready to take charge of your recovery? Schedule a consultation with Genevieve to uncover your strengths and create a personalized action plan.
Not ready for a consultation? Download our Reconnecting Beyond Words: A Guide to Lifelong Aphasia Recovery for step-by-step activities you can try at home today! https://dolifespeechpathology.com/f/neuroplasticity
For Care Partners
Feeling overwhelmed? Join our free 5-day email course tailored for care partners. You’ll gain practical tips to reduce stress and support your loved one’s recovery. Sign up now and start feeling more in control.
Thank You to Our Sponsor
This episode is brought to you by the LIFE Aphasia Academy®, your trusted resource for tools, guidance, and support to rebuild communication and connection after stroke. Whether you're starting out or looking to thrive long-term, visit lifeaphasiaacademy.com to learn more.

#128 When Stroke Caregiving Breaks Your Heart – What to Do Next

Caregiving after stroke can leave you feeling exhausted, resentful, and heartbroken. In this episode, we explore the hidden emotional toll of caregiving—when love feels like obligation and the life you once had feels out of reach. If you’ve ever felt stuck in guilt, burnout, or overwhelm, this conversation is for you.
We’ll break down:
Why resentment and guilt often go hand-in-hand for care partners
How to recognize the invisible load of caregiving that contributes to burnout
Simple, small steps to start regaining control of your emotional health
How to let go of tasks and expectations that weigh you down
✨ Take the first step toward healing.👉 Join the Chaos to Clarity 5-day email course for free – small, practical actions to help you shift from overwhelmed caregiver to empowered care partner. Sign up at https://dolifespeechpathology.com/f/from-chaos-to-clarity-email-course.

#127 From Hospital to Home - Aphasia Toolkit for Spouses

Caring for a spouse after a stroke can feel overwhelming—especially when aphasia creates communication barriers. In this episode, I introduce the Aphasia Communication Toolkit to help ease the transition from hospital to home. You’ll learn practical steps to reduce frustration, foster better communication, and feel more prepared as a caregiver.
The toolkit can be used in hospitals, rehab centers, and at home to provide clarity and structure during those crucial first few weeks.
🎧 Listen now and download the toolkit to start making meaningful progress at home.
Key Takeaways:
Physical Touch Bridges Gaps – A gentle hand squeeze or smile often communicates more than words during difficult moments.
Ask for Permission to Speak for Them – Giving your loved one a sense of control can restore dignity and trust.
Be Their Advocate – Reintroduce therapists, explain treatments, and simplify conversations, even if it feels repetitive.
Reflect and Repeat – Acknowledge what you don’t understand and gently mirror what you believe was said.
Action Steps:
Download the Aphasia Communication Toolkit to get checklists and communication tips.
Enroll in the Chaos to Clarity 5-Day Email Course to reduce stress and feel more organized.
Share this Episode with other caregivers to help more families feel supported.
CTA:Download the toolkit and enroll in Chaos to Clarity today.

#126 The Survivor Story of Dr. Viraj

In this inspiring episode, Dr. Viraj Sudhalkar, an ophthalmologist, shares her personal journey from physician to patient after surviving a stroke that left her with aphasia. Joined by speech pathologist Mary Beth Hines, Dr. Viraj opens up about her recovery, the challenges of aphasia, and how she transitioned from surgery to patient counseling. Key takeaways include the importance of mindset in recovery, the role of family and therapy, and the value of appreciating life's small moments.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
Mindset and Positivity: Dr. Viraj emphasizes the power of choosing positivity even during tough times.
Rehabilitation Journey: Continuous therapy, including speech and physical rehabilitation, plays a crucial role in long-term recovery.
Identity Shift: Moving from a medical professional to a patient reshaped her perspective on empathy and counseling.
Role of Support: Family, therapists, and personal drive are vital in overcoming the hurdles of post-stroke life
 
🚀 Next Steps (CTA for Caregivers):
🌟 Take the First Step – Join "From Chaos to Clarity" (Free Course)If you’re a caregiver for someone with aphasia or stroke, start regaining control today. Our free 5-day email course offers simple, practical tips to help you shift from overwhelmed caregiver to empowered care partner.
💡 Spend 15 minutes a day for just 5 days – because you deserve time for yourself. Small steps lead to big changes.👉 Sign up now and take the first step towards clarity and confidence.
 
✨ You’re worth it.

#125 Reflect, Celebrate Wins, and Set 2025 Intentions

Are you a care partner feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of supporting your loved one with aphasia? In this episode of the Listen for LIFE Aphasia Podcast, Genevieve Richardson helps you reflect on 2024, celebrate your wins, and set meaningful intentions for 2025.
Through guided reflection questions and her personal stories, Genevieve offers actionable insights to help you find balance and prioritize yourself—because when you’re grounded, your loved one’s recovery can thrive.
🎧 Key Takeaways from This Episode:
Why reflection is a powerful tool for growth and clarity.
How celebrating wins—no matter how small—can shift your mindset.
Three essential reflection questions to set your focus for 2025.
A free resource: the Chaos to Clarity email course, designed to help care partners regain control in just 15 minutes a day.
📝 Reflection Questions from the Episode:
What’s one thing you’re proud of this year?
What’s one area where you’ve felt overwhelmed or stuck—and what’s one thing you did to rise to the challenge?
If you could focus on one thing to improve in 2025, what would it be?
Discover how to create breathing room, balance, and better communication with your loved one.
Don’t miss the teaser for next week’s inspiring episode with stroke survivor and surgeon Viraj—her story of resilience will leave you feeling hopeful and motivated. Ready to reflect and reset? Let’s dive in!

#124 The One Thing You Can Do to Make This Holiday Aphasia Inclusive

With just one week to go, there’s still time to make your holiday inclusive and joyful for everyone, including those with aphasia. In this episode, learn how to recruit communication allies, empower self-advocacy, and plan activities that reduce conversational stress. Featuring real success stories, actionable tips, and insights from the Aphasia Inclusive Celebrations digital guide, this episode is your go-to resource for creating a truly inclusive holiday experience.
 
https://dolifespeechpathology.com/courses/aphasia-inclusive-celebrations-digital-book-buy/buy

#123 Transform Your Holidays with Inclusive Aphasia-Friendly Games

In this episode, we talk about creating holiday games and activities that are inclusive for individuals with aphasia. Genevieve Richardson, a speech-language pathologist, introduces the idea of engaging in games with an "aphasia buddy" to help individuals with aphasia participate in social activities, reducing feelings of isolation. Autumn, a team member with aphasia, shares her personal experiences and strategies for making holiday gatherings more inclusive. She emphasizes the importance of finding comfortable spaces and engaging in activities like puzzles to feel included without the pressure of direct conversation.
The episode explores various games that can be adapted for individuals with aphasia, focusing on fostering connection rather than competition. Genevieve and Autumn discuss the significance of creating a comfortable environment for playing games, suggesting quieter areas to enhance the experience. They emphasize the importance of flexibility with game rules and the need for patience and understanding from family members.
Top Takeaways:
Engage in games with an "aphasia buddy" to reduce feelings of isolation.
Create a supportive environment by modifying games for inclusivity.
Find comfortable spaces and activities to participate without pressure.
Be patient and understanding, allowing extra time for responses.
Plan ahead for gatherings to manage energy levels effectively.
 
buy the digital copy of book: https://dolifespeechpathology.com/courses/aphasia-inclusive-celebrations-digital-book-buy/buy
 
Link to free chapter: https://dolifespeechpathology.com/f/holiday-book-chapter-1
 
Let's work together to uncomplicate aphasia and create inclusive environments for everyone. For more support and resources, reach out to LIFE Speech Pathology. Remember, connection and understanding are key to making gatherings enjoyable for all.
 
The Listen for LIFE Aphasia Podcast is a platform dedicated to supporting individuals through stories and experiences. Visit ListenForLIFEAphasiaPodcast.com to view video episodes. If you have a topic or guest recommendation, or if YOU want to be a guest, visit the Guest Hub. If you have any unanswered questions, you can ask Genevieve and Aphasia Wisdom through “Search for Answers.”
 
If you or a loved one is seeking telepractice support, LIFE Speech Pathology® can help! Explore our services and approach at DoLIFESpeechPathology.com. 
 
Do you or someone you love have aphasia and are seeking support? Book a free consultation by heading over to DoLIFESpeechPathology.com or by following this specific link: https://DoLIFESpeech.intakeq.com/booking?serviceId=dc1e232b-a9ed-46cb-aba3-cdbbb0fab97b.
 
Stay connected with us on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram for updates and encouragement.
Together, let's uncomplicate aphasia.

#122 Adapting Holiday Traditions for Aphasia Inclusion

In this episode of the Listen for Life podcast, we talk about the importance of including individuals with aphasia in holiday celebrations. Genevieve shares her personal experiences and insights, emphasizing the significance of connection and communication during the holidays.
Genevieve recounts her own Thanksgiving experience, where she chose to attend a friend's gathering instead of hosting, relieving herself of the pressure to maintain family traditions. She highlights the challenges faced by caregivers and family members of those with aphasia, encouraging them to reflect on and modify their traditions to create meaningful and inclusive experiences.
The episode introduces Genevieve's workbook, "Aphasia Inclusive Celebrations," which provides practical guidance for families in navigating holiday planning. Through a case study of a woman named Shirley, Genevieve illustrates how families can adapt their traditions to include loved ones with aphasia, focusing on simplifying activities and fostering meaningful connections.
Top Takeaways:
Reflect on which holiday traditions are meaningful and why.
Evaluate potential challenges for individuals with aphasia, such as sensory overload or stress.
Brainstorm adjustments to simplify activities and create a manageable environment.
Plan and practice with ongoing discussions about preferences and choices.
Celebrate moments of connection and appreciate efforts made during gatherings.
Genevieve encourages creative thinking and offers resources like her workbook and aphasia conversation pieces to support families in uncomplicating aphasia during the holidays. She invites listeners to download the first chapter of her workbook and access additional resources through LIFE Speech Pathology, emphasizing the importance of connection and communication in celebrating with loved ones who have aphasia.
 
Buy a Digital copy of Aphasia Inclusive Celebrations
Aphasia Inclusive Celebrations Digital Book - Create Meaningful and Connected Gatherings
dolifespeechpathology.com
https://dolifespeechpathology.com/courses/aphasia-inclusive-celebrations-digital-book-buy/buy
 
Purchase a Physical copy on Amazon
Aphasia-Inclusive Celebrations: A Spouse’s Toolkit to Navigate Holidays and Gatherings (LIFE Aphasia Connection + Communication Series)
amazon.com
 
The Listen for LIFE Aphasia Podcast is a platform dedicated to supporting individuals through stories and experiences. Visit ListenForLIFEAphasiaPodcast.com to view video episodes. If you have a topic or guest recommendation, or if YOU want to be a guest, visit the Guest Hub. If you have any unanswered questions, you can ask Genevieve and Aphasia Wisdom through “Search for Answers.”
 
If you or a loved one is seeking telepractice support, LIFE Speech Pathology® can help! Explore our services and approach at DoLIFESpeechPathology.com. 
 
Do you or someone you love have aphasia and are seeking support? Book a free consultation by heading over to DoLIFESpeechPathology.com or by following this specific link: https://DoLIFESpeech.intakeq.com/booking?serviceId=dc1e232b-a9ed-46cb-aba3-cdbbb0fab97b.
 
Stay connected with us on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram for updates and encouragement.
Together, let's uncomplicate aphasia.
 

#121 Aphasia Self Care by the Generations

In this episode of the Listen for Life podcast, we explore the theme of self-care across different generations, especially during the holiday season. Genevieve shares her insights as a Generation X member, reflecting on how self-care often feels like a luxury rather than a necessity during the busy holiday period. The discussion emphasizes the importance of self-care for stroke survivors and their caregivers, highlighting its role in maintaining overall well-being amidst holiday pressures.
We categorize the audience into four generational groups: Baby Boomers, Generation X, Millennials, and Generation Z, each with distinct attitudes towards self-care. The episode also addresses the challenges stroke survivors with aphasia face during the holidays, such as communication difficulties and feelings of isolation. Genevieve offers practical self-care steps to help listeners navigate these challenges effectively.
Top Takeaways:
Generational Perspectives on Self-Care:
Baby Boomers view self-care as indulgent, focusing on practical activities.
Generation X struggles with self-care, opting for quick, efficient recharges.
Millennials integrate self-care into mental health awareness, using technology.
Generation Z values authenticity and quick resets, utilizing digital tools.
Holiday Challenges for Stroke Survivors:
Communication difficulties can lead to isolation.
Caregivers may feel overwhelmed by holiday demands.
Actionable Self-Care Steps:
Breathe: Recognize stress and take a moment to breathe.
Identify Needs: List immediate needs and address them.
Ask for Help: Prepare to delegate tasks when offers of assistance arise.
Create Space for Rest: Prioritize rest during gatherings and travel.
Genevieve encourages listeners to reflect on their self-care practices and discover what works best for them during the holiday season. She introduces her book, "Aphasia Inclusive Celebrations," offering strategies for inclusive holiday gatherings. As a special offer, the book is available at a discounted price through their Etsy store.
 
'Aphasia Inclusive Celebrations' is now available on Amazon. Designed to make holidays welcoming and joyous for those with aphasia and their families.
Download your free chapter:  https://dolifespeechpathology.com/f/holiday-book-chapter-1.  
Purchase on Amazon: https://bit.ly/aphasia-inclusion
 
The Listen for LIFE Aphasia Podcast is a platform dedicated to supporting individuals through stories and experiences. Visit ListenForLIFEAphasiaPodcast.com to view video episodes. If you have a topic or guest recommendation, or if YOU want to be a guest, visit the Guest Hub. If you have any unanswered questions, you can ask Genevieve and Aphasia Wisdom through “Search for Answers.”
 
If you or a loved one is seeking telepractice support, LIFE Speech Pathology® can help! Explore our services and approach at DoLIFESpeechPathology.com. 
 
Do you or someone you love have aphasia and are seeking support? Book a free consultation by heading over to DoLIFESpeechPathology.com or by following this specific link: https://DoLIFESpeech.intakeq.com/booking?serviceId=dc1e232b-a9ed-46cb-aba3-cdbbb0fab97b.
 
Stay connected with us on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram for updates and encouragement.
Together, let's uncomplicate aphasia.

#120 Bruce's Aphasia Story: Racing Unspoken Challenges

In this episode, we talk about the theme of aphasia inclusion during the holiday season, focusing on Bruce's journey with ataxic dysarthria. Bruce experiences a speech disorder that affects the clarity and speed of his verbal communication, yet he remains vibrant and actively participates in holiday celebrations. Despite the challenges, Bruce's story highlights the joy that can be found even when facing obstacles. Throughout the episode, we explore Bruce's strategies for managing his communication difficulties, especially during the stressful holiday season.
 
Top Takeaways:
Communication impairments require patience and understanding from loved ones.
Self-advocacy and clear communication of needs are crucial for individuals with dysarthria.
Engaging in smaller group conversations can alleviate pressure and enhance participation.
Taking breaks and having a "recharge spot" can help manage fatigue and improve communication clarity.
Preparing jokes or stories in advance can facilitate engagement in social gatherings.
 
To support individuals with communication challenges, consider reflecting on your ideal holiday experiences and how to create a more inclusive environment. Utilize resources like the Holiday Inclusion Workbook and plan with supportive individuals to foster inclusivity.
The Listen for LIFE Aphasia Podcast is a platform dedicated to supporting individuals through stories and experiences. Visit ListenForLIFEAphasiaPodcast.com to view video episodes. If you have a topic or guest recommendation, or if YOU want to be a guest, visit the Guest Hub. If you have any unanswered questions, you can ask Genevieve and Aphasia Wisdom through “Search for Answers.”
 
If you or a loved one is seeking telepractice support, LIFE Speech Pathology® can help! Explore our services and approach at DoLIFESpeechPathology.com. 
 
Do you or someone you love have aphasia and are seeking support? Book a free consultation by heading over to DoLIFESpeechPathology.com or by following this specific link: https://DoLIFESpeech.intakeq.com/booking?serviceId=dc1e232b-a9ed-46cb-aba3-cdbbb0fab97b.
 
Stay connected with us on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram for updates and encouragement.
Together, let's uncomplicate aphasia.