Modeling Treated Recovery From Aphasia
Modeling Treated Recovery From Aphasia
Stroke is the leading cause of adult disability in the United States, and aphasia is common
 following a stroke to the left hemisphere of the brain. Aphasia therapy can improve aphasia
 recover; however, very little is known about how different patients respond to different
 types of treatments.

 The purpose of this study is to understand how the following factors influence an
 individual's response to aphasia treatment: 1) biographical factors (e.g., age, education,
 gender), 2) post-stroke cognitive/linguistic abilities and learning potential, and 3) the
 location and extent of post-stroke brain damage. We are also interested in understanding the
 kinds of treatment materials that should be emphasized in speech/language treatment.

 Overall, the goal of the current research is to inform the clinical management of post-stroke
 aphasia by identifying factors that can predict how an individual will respond to different
 treatment methods.
Inclusion Criteria:

 -  Experienced a left hemisphere ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke At least 12 months
 post-stroke

 -  Primarily English speaker for the past 20 years

 -  Ability to provide informed written or verbal consent MRI-compatible (e.g., no metal
 implants, not claustrophobic)

 Exclusion Criteria:

 -  History of a right hemisphere stroke (Bilateral stroke)

 -  Clinically reported history of dementia, alcohol abuse, psychiatric disorder,
 traumatic brain injury, or extensive visual acuity or visual-spatial problems

 -  Severely limited speech production and/or auditory comprehension that interferes with
 adequate participation in the therapy provided