We often talk about how aphasia impacts people’s ability to speak or understand language, but what about aphasia’s impact on sign language?
Do the hands sometimes sign “apple” instead of “orange” thanks to a semantic paraphasia?
If one arm is weak or paralyzed because of a stroke, how does THAT impact someone’s ability to communicate using sign language?
Instead of speech-language pathology, would we make the focus sign-language pathology?
Shelby Hill SLPD CCC-SLP QOM, is here to talk all about it – and you WON’T want to miss this discussion!
Shelby describes her important work and research with individuals who are deaf and have also acquired a communication disorder. She covers important topics like whether or not sign language falls under the SLP scope of practice, how the neurological processes for signing are similar to those for speaking, and what aphasia can look like in individuals who use sign language.
Don’t worry, if you find yourself saying, “I should have known that!” throughout this episode, you’re not alone.
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Timestamps:
Shelby's Background (00:02:09)
Diverse Work Settings (00:03:16)
Experience at Gallaudet University (00:04:07)
Identity Disclaimer (00:05:55)
Aphasia Awareness (00:07:35)
Sign Language Pathology Definition (00:08:07)
Understanding the Deaf Community (00:09:29)
Research Study Overview (00:11:52)
Findings from the Survey (00:12:40)
Aphasia in Deaf Patients (00:14:44)
Neurological Basis of Signed Aphasia (00:15:46)
Examples of Signed Aphasia (00:16:51)
Legalities of ASL Interpreters (00:19:56)
Using Interpreters Effectively (00:21:11)
The Need for ASL Specialists (00:22:03)
Bridging Research and Practice (00:22:51)
The Future of Sign Language Pathology (00:23:22)
Neglected Area in Communication Disorders (00:24:34)
Importance of Research Awareness (00:24:53)
Graduate Students' Perceptions (00:25:43)
Barriers to Effective Treatment (00:26:49)
ASHA's Role in Clinical Reform (00:28:13)
