Speech Pathology · Yagoona
Speech Pathology After a Stroke
Help with talking, understanding, swallowing and thinking skills after a stroke, from the first weeks home from hospital to the years that follow.
Overview
How a Stroke Can Affect Communication and Swallowing
A stroke can change several things at once. Depending on which part of the brain is affected, a person may have trouble finding words or understanding others (aphasia), slurred or unclear speech from muscle weakness (dysarthria), difficulty planning the movements for speech (apraxia of speech), or changes to attention, memory and problem solving that affect conversation. Swallowing can also be affected, which can make eating and drinking unsafe.
Most people start Speech Pathology in hospital or inpatient rehabilitation. The hardest part often comes after discharge, when hospital therapy ends but there's still plenty of recovery ahead. That's where we come in.
We continue the work in the community, focusing on what matters at home: talking with family, managing phone calls and appointments, eating and drinking safely, and getting back to the activities and roles the person values.
Signs & symptoms
Common Changes After a Stroke
Everyone's experience is different. If any of the signs below sound familiar, it's worth reaching out for a professional opinion, even if you're not sure.
Sudden new symptoms, such as facial drooping, arm weakness or slurred speech, can be a sign of another stroke. Call 000 immediately.
What to expect
Our Assessment Process
We know assessments can feel daunting. Our process is thorough but warm, and we take the time to understand the whole person, not just the diagnosis.
Referral and Background
Refer through our online form or give us a call. We'll ask for the hospital discharge summary and any Speech Pathology reports from hospital or rehabilitation, so we can pick up where they left off.
Assessment Appointment
We see adults in our Yagoona clinic, via telehealth, at home, or in residential aged care (nursing homes), wherever suits the person best. Family members are welcome and encouraged to attend.
During the Assessment
We assess speech, language, thinking skills and swallowing as needed, and talk with the person and their family about goals and daily routines.
Plan and Report
We explain what we found in plain language and agree on goals together. You'll receive a report with recommendations, usually within two weeks, with a copy sent to the GP. With consent, we also keep other members of the care team informed.
Referral and Background
Refer through our online form or give us a call. We'll ask for the hospital discharge summary and any Speech Pathology reports from hospital or rehabilitation, so we can pick up where they left off.
Assessment Appointment
We see adults in our Yagoona clinic, via telehealth, at home, or in residential aged care (nursing homes), wherever suits the person best. Family members are welcome and encouraged to attend.
During the Assessment
We assess speech, language, thinking skills and swallowing as needed, and talk with the person and their family about goals and daily routines.
Plan and Report
We explain what we found in plain language and agree on goals together. You'll receive a report with recommendations, usually within two weeks, with a copy sent to the GP. With consent, we also keep other members of the care team informed.
Therapy
How We Support Stroke Recovery
Recovery after a stroke is different for everyone, so therapy is tailored to the person, their goals and where they are in their recovery. Sessions are practical and focused on daily life, and we give the person and their family clear practice to do between sessions.
What we work on
- Aphasia therapy to rebuild language
- Speech clarity work for dysarthria and apraxia of speech
- Strategies for attention, memory and conversation
- Swallowing assessments and Mealtime Management Plans
- Communication aids and apps where speech is limited
- Training and support for family and carers
Communication Therapy
Targeted work on language, speech clarity and thinking skills, built around the person's real goals.
Swallowing Support
Assessment and practical mealtime plans so eating and drinking stay as safe and enjoyable as possible.
Family and Carer Training
Strategies and confidence for the people supporting recovery every day.
What families can expect
What You Can Expect
We set measurable goals and track progress carefully, so you always know where things stand and what comes next.
Ready to start? Our team is happy to answer your questions. There's no obligation, just a friendly conversation.
Refer NowCommon questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? Our full FAQ page covers many more topics, or just give us a call and we'll help.
Related services
Related Services
Other areas our team supports. If you're not sure which is right for you, contact us and we'll point you in the right direction.
Cognitive Communication
Support with memory, attention and problem-solving after brain injury.
Learn moreReady to Get Started?
Not sure if this is the right fit? Contact us and we'll help you figure out the next step.
Prefer to talk? Call us on (02) 9052 6095