This information is for anyone supporting a stroke survivor with communication problems.
You’ll find information on different types of communication problems, as well as tips on supporting someone with their recovery and a guide to having good conversations. There are also accessible resources available.
How does stroke affect communication?
When a stroke happens, it damages part of the brain. Language is controlled by several different areas of the brain working together. If part of the brain that supports language is damaged by a stroke, this can affect communication.
Communication problems are very common after a stroke. Around two-thirds of people have communication problems directly after a stroke, and some people will have long-term difficulties.
The impact of a stroke on communication is different for each person. It depends on the size of the stroke and where it happened in the brain. Communication problems may improve with support and therapy. Support from those close to the person, such as family and friends, can also have a positive impact on their daily life.
Communication difficulties after a stroke can vary over time. Someone can have good days and bad days. If someone’s feeling tired, lacking confidence or in a low mood, it can make it harder to communicate. Being in a busy or noisy place can make it harder to concentrate and respond. It can be especially difficult when a stroke survivor is trying to communicate with someone who does not know how to support a person with communication difficulties.
Other causes of communication problems
Communication problems can be due to other conditions affecting the brain, such as dementia, traumatic brain injury and brain tumours. If you need dedicated information and support for one of those conditions, go to our list of external organisations.
How does this affect daily life?
Communication problems can affect all aspects of someone’s life. They can have a big impact on relationships with friends and family members. Many people tell us they become isolated or feel lonely after a stroke because of their difficulties with communication, as well as a loss of confidence. Friendships can drop away if friends find it too difficult to communicate or feel unsure how to help a stroke survivor.
Communication problems can also impact a person’s work, hobbies and other aspects of daily life. They may find it harder to do everyday tasks like going to the shops, or may need support to help them get online or use a mobile phone.
Fatigue and a loss of confidence after a stroke can make it harder for someone to be motivated to do things like rehabilitation activities. They might avoid going out and being active. These are all important parts of recovery. People tell us doing things they enjoy and creating a routine really help their wellbeing.
Remember someone might need help to build up motivation. For example, you can give encouragement and offer practical support with rehabilitation. Learn more about supporting someone after a stroke or call our Stroke Support Helpline if you have any questions.
People don’t understand how difficult it is to string a sentence together and how much energy it takes just to do normal things.
Grace, stroke survivor
Types of communication problems
Where to get help and information
- Communication Support Pack – our Communication Support Pack is full of essential accessible information and communication tools to help support you with communication difficulties at home and in the community.
- Stroke Support Helpline – our Stroke Support Helpline offers information and support for anyone affected by stroke, including family, friends and carers.
Call us on 0303 3033 100, from a textphone 18001 0303 3033 100 or email helpline@stroke.org.uk
- Aphasia Alliance lists all the main organisations dedicated to supporting people with aphasia and their carers.
- Aphasia Reconnect has information on aphasia, plus support groups.
- The Brain and Spine Foundation has information about conditions affecting the brain and spine, plus a helpline and support groups. Helpline: 0808 808 1000
- The Brain Tumour Charity has information about living with a brain tumour, and language difficulties due to brain tumours. Tel: 0808 800 0004
- Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland provides communication support in Scotland, including groups and one-to-one support. Advice Line: 0808 801 0899 Email the advice line
- Communication Matters has practical advice and tools for people living with complex communication needs. Tel: 0113 343 1533
- Dementia UK Tel: 0800 888 6678
- Headway has information and support for traumatic brain injury, including communication and cognitive problems. Tel: 0808 800 2244
- Say Aphasia offers online and in-person groups for people with aphasia.
- The Tavistock Trust for Aphasia provides information about aphasia, the ‘Aphasia Software Finder’ and grants of up to £1,000 for individuals and groups. Tel: 0152 529 0002
Accessible resources
The information on this page can be accessed in the following formats:
- Word document
- Order a printed copy from our shop.
- To request a braille copy, email feedback@stroke.org.uk