Feature: New aphasia camp provides personalized communication support after stroke
“Miniature schnauzer…”
“Lhasa apso…”
“Pomeranian…”
These were just a few of the dog breed names that participants of the UGA Speech and Hearing Clinic’s Athens Aphasia Camp practiced pronouncing together while playing a game of “Man’s Best Friend Bingo.”
The activity served as a fun, low-pressure way for eight adults with aphasia to engage in conversation, build confidence, and connect with their peers. While marking off their bingo charts, they also found time to interact with and offer treats to two therapy dogs who joined the session as fluffy supporters—Sadie, a labradoodle, and Rocky, a cockalier.
For people living with aphasia, a language disorder that often occurs after a stroke, communication challenges extend far beyond speaking and understanding words. Aphasia can impact relationships, independence, confidence, and participation in everyday life.
“With this camp, we are encouraging people with aphasia to step outside their comfort zones and try something new in a supportive space where the stakes are low, but the rewards are deeply meaningful,” said Javad Anjum, an assistant professor in the Department of Communication Sciences and Special Education. “We know that meaningful gains in communication happen when people with aphasia are supported in reconnecting with others.”