Aphasia vs. Apraxia: Understanding the Differences
If your child has recently been diagnosed with a neurological condition, terms like “aphasia” and “apraxia” might be swirling in your head. While both can be quite difficult to understand, it’s important to know how they differ so you can best support your child’s needs.
What are Aphasia and Apraxia?
- Aphasia: This condition primarily affects language. Children with aphasia may struggle to understand words, speak fluently, read, or write. Their brain’s “dictionary” and “grammar guide” are out of order.
- Apraxia: Impacts the ability to perform learned movements. A child with apraxia might have trouble carrying out actions they know how to do. Think of it as the brain’s “instruction manual” for movement getting jumbled.
For Example…
- With Aphasia: A child might see a ball and want to say “ball,” but their brain can’t find the word “ball.” Or, they might not understand when you ask them to “get the ball.”
- With Apraxia: A child might know exactly how to use a hairbrush but struggle to plan how to get their body to pick up the brush and brush their hair smoothly.
What Causes Them?
Both aphasia and apraxia usually stem from damage to specific parts of the brain. This can happen due to:
- Stroke
- Traumatic brain injury
- Brain Tumor
- Neurodegenerative diseases (like dementia)
How to Tell Them Apart
Think about these questions:
- Does your child have trouble finding words or putting together sentences? (Aphasia more likely)
- Does your child struggle with opening a bottle, buttoning, or using a fork? (Apraxia more likely)
It’s Not Always One or the Other
Sometimes, children can experience both aphasia and apraxia, especially after a significant brain injury.
Getting the Right Diagnosis is Key
Talk to your child’s doctor for referrals to specialists like neurologists and speech-language pathologists. These professionals can pinpoint whether the condition is aphasia, apraxia, or both and help guide you to the most effective support.
Hope for Managing Aphasia and Apraxia
While there’s no instant cure, the right interventions can make a world of difference:
- Speech-Language Therapy: Helps with both language and speech-related aspects of apraxia.
- Occupational Therapy: Helps address the movement challenges of apraxia.
You’re Not Alone
Seeing your child struggle is heartbreaking. Remember:
- Patience is key: Progress takes time.
- Celebrate small wins: Every step forward is huge!
- Seek support groups: Connect with other parents for encouragement and shared experiences.
