Episode 21

Cognitive Rehab After Stroke: Interview With Anne Blandford, Speech-Language Pathologist

Rosa Hart, BSN, R.N., SCRN, talks with Anne Blandford, SLPD, CCC/SLP, about the crucial role that speech therapy plays in stroke recovery. Anne explains the broad scope of her work, which includes helping stroke survivors with speech, cognitive processes and swallowing. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the full capabilities of speech therapists beyond just speech clarity, especially for adults.

Key points 

• Misconceptions about speech therapy, especially in adult stroke care
• Importance of assessing and treating swallowing issues to prevent aspiration
• Strategies to improve cognitive functions and communication after a stroke
• Home activities and exercises to aid recovery for those in rural or underserved areas
• Significance of patience and time in the recovery process, highlighting the brain’s ability to rewire itself through neuroplasticity
• Role of breathing exercises in reducing anxiety and improving cognitive tasks
• Different types of aphasia — expressive, receptive and global — and tips for caregivers on how to support stroke survivors effectively

 

Listeners can download a helpful PDF with home activities discussed during the episode. 

file:///H:/Stroke%20Podcast/Speech%20Therapy%20Cognitive%20Tip%20Sheet.pdf

 

For further support, Anne recommends virtual aphasia support groups and resources, such as the neuro choir offered by Norton Neuroscience Institute. Sign up at NortonHealthcare.com/NNIClasses.

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If you enjoyed this podcast, listen to Norton Healthcare’s other podcast, “MedChat,” available in your favorite podcast app. “MedChat” provides CME on the go and is targeted toward physicians and clinicians to get the latest updates on adult and pediatric topics.

Norton Healthcare, a not-for-profit health care system, is a leader in serving adult and pediatric patients throughout Greater Louisville, Southern Indiana, the commonwealth of Kentucky and beyond. Five Louisville hospitals provide inpatient and outpatient general care as well as specialty care, including heart, neuroscience, cancer, orthopedic, women’s and pediatric services. A strong research program provides access to clinical trials in a multitude of areas. More information about Norton Healthcare is available at NortonHealthcare.com.

Date of original release: Aug. 12, 2024

 

Podcast editing and production by: www.unmuteaudio.com