The Oxford Handbook of Aphasia and Language Disorders

Abstract

The language and communication impairments that individuals experience following damage to the cerebral cortex vary widely, depending on the extent of involvement and location in the left or right hemisphere. Historically, numerous aphasia syndromes have been described, typically following left hemisphere damage, each with unique characteristics. Other subtle aspects of communication are disrupted in right hemisphere disorders as well. Clinicians who work with individuals with communication disorders recognize patterns of symptoms, administer appropriate assessments, and develop interventions to address the language and communication impairments. Recognized authors from around the world review the extensive literature on the varied aphasia syndromes, acquired dyslexia and dysgraphia, and right hemisphere communication disorders. Starting with a rich historical overview, the book turns to broad perspectives from the World Health Organization model applied in clinical assessment of aphasia. A series of chapters expands on the aphasia syndromes, dyslexia and dysgraphia, and right hemisphere disorders, weaving theoretical perspectives and building neurological foundations that lead to sound clinical approaches to assessment and intervention intended to maximize recovery of language and communication following acquired brain injury. The book ends with a focus on rehabilitation, including prognostic factors at play in aphasia recovery, and principles of neuroplasticity intended to maximize rehabilitation outcomes. Readers will leave with a breadth of information deriving from an extensive overview of the literature on aphasia and related communication disorders.