Computational strategy for aphasia support

Abstract

Aphasia, a language disorder resulting from brain lesions, impacts communication abilities, and is commonly diagnosed through formal tests assessing speech fluency, comprehension, naming, and repetition abilities. These tests aid in devising treatment plans and evaluating recovery potential. Technological advances have enabled the development of devices and techniques for recording brain activity. Despite their potential, the high cost, device robustness, and complexity often limit their application in rehabilitation centers outside hospitals. In this study, we propose a computational strategy that uses electroencephalography devices to support aphasia rehabilitation therapies. The research was conducted with aphasic participants undergoing rehabilitation at the Center for Prevention and Rehabilitation of People with Disabilities within the Unified Health System in Bahia-Brazil. Preliminary results obtained from the silent word generation task, as outlined in the adult language paradigm by the American Society for Functional Neuroradiology, suggest that increased electrical activation in the right hemisphere may indicate language migration to the non-dominant hemisphere, potentially leading to improved recovery.