Aphasia – an existential loneliness: A study on the loss of the world of symbols

Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyse the existential consequences of aphasia and the struggle to regain the ability to communicate. Data were collected by means of interviews, published books and diaries from four women and five men, who varied in type of aphasia and time since cerebral lesion. Data were interpreted in accordance with a lifeworld hermeneutic approach. The findings led to six interpretations, which serve as a base for a comprehensive understanding and which indicate that the intentional, non-verbal act when something is recognized as something is not affected by aphasia. Aphasia affects the world of symbols, which is necessary for interaction with others. It is connected, therefore, with feelings of alienation, inferiority and shame in social settings. Losing one's ability to recognize symbols thus makes it essential to cope with existential loneliness. The outcome, a sense of community or alienation, appears to depend on the quality of interpersonal relations. The results thus demonstrate that interaction and communication are important aspects of professional care giving.