The new Tasmanian Communication Support Group aims to provide an active means of support and social connection for people with aphasia, their carers and families.

People with aphasia may have language difficulties, in producing or comprehending spoken or written language. The opportunity to improve communication skills and confidence is seen as a cornerstone for members.

Similarly, the support and education of relatives and carers is an important focus for the group. Speech pathologists from the Department of Health and Human Services will be working with the group on a regular basis.

The group discussed some real-life situations that present daily challenges. These range from using the phone, requesting information, understanding numbers, letters or times or talking to strangers.

The group plans to discuss and introduce strategies to improve communication in these situations. While the group is still very new we are delighted to be able to offer another source of support for people with aphasia.

We are pleased to be working in partnership with the Department of Health and Human Services. For more information or to become a member please call Stephen Rue on: 03 6231 4424

For more information please contact the Australian Aphasia Association on:
1800 274 274 or visit: www.aphasia.org.au