Download Apraxia of speech

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Apraxia of speech
What is apraxia of speech?
Apraxia of speech (also known as dyspraxia) is a motor speech disorder. You know what you
want to say, but the brain has trouble telling the speech muscles how to move. The muscles are
not weak.
What happens when I speak?
You may have difficulty starting a word – your muscles may search for the right place before you
can say a word correctly. Your speech may sound distorted and slow. Each time you say a word it
may sound different – this can be frustrating. Long words and sentences may be harder. Everyday
sayings may be easier than answering questions or describing something.
What causes apraxia of speech?
Apraxia of speech is caused by damage to the areas of the brain
that coordinate the muscles involved in speech. This includes the
muscles of the lungs, voice box, lips, and tongue.
You may have had a stroke (the most common cause) or a head
injury (for example, in a car accident).
Are there different types?
Yes, apraxia of speech is variable.
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You may not be able to speak at all.
You may have only occasional problems with a word.
You may also have aphasia (a language disorder). The severity
of your aphasia and apraxia of speech may differ.
Will I get better?
A lot can change over the first few days, weeks, and months. Some people recover very quickly.
For others, it is a long, slow process.
You may never communicate as well as you did before. But some people still see signs of
progress years later.
Who can help?
A speech language therapist will work with you and your whānau or family to help improve your
speech and develop new ways to communicate effectively.
What is communication?
Communication is interacting with another person, having a conversation, sharing your thoughts,
wants, needs, opinions, and ideas.
HealthInfo reference: 78424
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Issued: 5 December 2016
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Apraxia of speech
www.healthinfo.org.nz
Communication is not just talking. It also involves:
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writing
gestures
facial expressions
drawing
tone of voice
pointing to pictures.
Communication allows us to make and keep relationships. It also
allows us to carry out life activities.
Communication is a partnership. You and your conversation
partner will need to work together.
What can I do to help?
Try to relax and take your time. Keep your answers short and simple. And if you get stuck on a
word, try
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saying it in a different way
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writing it down
gesturing
pointing to what you want
using your communication book or
device.
What can my communication partner(s) do?
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Give you time to get your message out.
Create a relaxed environment.
Be patient when you are frustrated. Ask you to stop and rest.
Ask you questions that need a “yes” or “no” response.
Encourage you to gesture or write things down.
Encourage you to use your communication device.
Reduce distractions.
Help you practise your speech exercises.
Let you know if they do not understand you.
You might also be interested in the page about Dysarthria, available at www.healthinfo.org.nz.
Local health professionals recommend the following pages.
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Parkinson's New Zealand – Advice and support for New Zealanders living with Parkinson's,
their families and carers, available at www.parkinsons.org.nz.
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Stroke Foundation – Help and support for people affected by stroke and their families and
whanau, available at www.stroke.org.nz.
Written by speech-language therapists, Canterbury DHB. Adapted by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Reviewed
December 2016.
Images from FreeDigitalPhotos.net, by Master Isolated and Stuart Miles
78424
HealthInfo reference: 78424

Issued: 5 December 2016
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Page 2 of 2