Speech therapy

People with either of the language variants may benefit from speech therapy to help them adjust to their language difficulties and learn alternate ways to communicate. Maintaining adequate communication can decrease frustration, a common problem in FTD. Unlike many people who develop aphasia from head injury or stroke, people with FTD will not improve with time, but a therapist may be helpful in maximizing existing abilities and exploring other ways to communicate. Non-verbal techniques for communicating, such as gesturing, pointing to pictures, etc., may help people with SD or PNFA express themselves. Aphasia identification cards explaining that the person has a language problem can aid in communicating the person's condition to others. Many speech pathologists and occupational therapists have their own practices, while others are available through local hospitals and medical centers. Ask your doctor for a referral.