Rehabilitation of Aphasics In An Army Hospital

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Abstract
Description of the program of the rehabilitation of aphasics at the Percy Jones General Hospital in Battle Creek. Communication is damaged in these cases and many simple problems are involved which become gradually of great worry to the aphasic. He soon becomes aware he can no longer do many simple things he once took for granted. Usually these faults in reading and writing are blamed on paralysis or other functions. More serious difficulties arising from the usually reduced capacity for abstract thinking, from memory defects, from a shortened attention span, lack of ability, need for rest and sleep, anxieties, etc., almost complete lack of sense of humor, make the whole problem extremely difficult. Group work is stressed as valuable since, although this is less efficient, the cases inspire each other. Most aphasics are quite confused on left and right. Speech vocabulary has to be built in organized manner. Imitation is vitally important but all possible approaches must be used. Metal letters are valuable arranged on a black table in teaching reading and spelling. The "Sound Mirror" is a useful bit of equipment. Basic English is helpful in aiding the individual to get an adequate expression without having to learn too large an amount of vocabulary. Writing, arithmetic, group singing, typing, mathematics, and any other subject may be used to help the patient along. Speech and language training are co-ordinated with work in occupational therapy and physiotherapy. The patient is constantly educated on what aphasia is and what the prospects are for him. A bulletin describing aphasia, published by the University of Michigan Speech Clinic, is sent to all parents and relatives of the patient. Some of the results are measurable; others simply show in the healthier and happier attitudes of those who live in the clinic.
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