Pets prompt communication for older people with aphasia

Screenshot 2023-07-31 135509
Currently, more than 140,000 Australians live with aphasia. [Source: UniSA]

Key points:

  • Partnering with Aphasia SA, researchers found that pets have a unique ability to improve communication among people with aphasia
  • While every person with aphasia presents differently, the condition often affects a person’s ability to speak, read, write, and understand others
  • There are many different causes of aphasia but the most common one is stroke. Aphasia can also be caused by brain tumours, traumatic brain injury, certain types of dementia and other conditions

Feathers, fins or fur, all pets can make us feel happier. Now, new research from the University of South Australia (UniSA) shows pet ownership and pet care can also support communication and well-being, especially for older people with acquired language difficulties such as aphasia.

Older people are at higher risk of developing aphasia as sensory issues begin to arise. Vision and hearing loss are prevalent in older adults which often results in poor communication and diminished psychosocial functioning. Communication breakdown results in decreased socialisation which also affects people’s physical and mental well-being. 

UniSA Student Researcher, Charlotte Mitchard, said pets offer older people with aphasia “friendship without expectations”.

“Aphasia can have a big impact on a person’s life affecting how they connect and interact with others, as well as how they participate in the community,” Ms Mitchard said.

Senior Researcher and Speech Pathologist Professor Maria Kambanaros said the study paves the way for more pet and health research in speech pathology. The team’s next research challenge has already been outlined – examining how pet ownership can help people who are caring for those with aphasia.

“Beyond that, we’re also exploring the impact of pet ownership on the well-being of people with different acquired neurological disorders, such as Parkinson’s Disease,” Prof Kambanaros explained.

“We know pets have a positive impact on our lives. By exploring how speech pathologists can support this in therapy, we can promote a far better quality of life.”

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

First permit issued under Victoria’s voluntary assisted dying laws

  The first person to use Victoria’s euthanasia laws has been given permission to have a medically assisted death. The permit was granted some weeks ago, according to reports in the media. However, it remains unclear if the person has taken the step of gaining access to the medication that could end their life.  Details remain... Read More

Why Seniors Should Get the Flu Injection Every Year

For many people, the prospect of a jab from sharp needle can be unnerving. But a flu shot is a sound recommendation for nearly all people who are able to obtain it. That recommendation is even stronger for the elderly. Seniors may be more susceptible to illness, or the effects of illness. Anyone who is... Read More

Regulatory action taken against Japara following alleged deadly attack

  The aged care watchdog has taken regulatory action against Japara Noosa following an alleged assault after which a resident died. On 20 October 2020, the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission learned that a resident of Japara Noosa had been transferred to hospital after an alleged assault and had subsequently passed away. The regulator... Read More
Advertisement