How to Teach Others to Communicate with You

Day 9.

When you live with aphasia, apraxia, or dysarthria, communication can take more effort—not just for you, but for the people around you. Most people want to help but simply don’t know how.

One of the most empowering things you can do is teach others how to communicate with you. When others understand what helps (and what doesn’t), frustration goes down and connection goes up—for everyone.

Start with Simple Education

You don’t have to give a long explanation. Just a few clear words can make a big difference.

You might say something like:

“I know what I want to say—it just takes me a little more time.”

or

“I have aphasia. Please give me a moment to respond.”

Sometimes, you can even let a small printed note or card do the explaining for you.

My First Communication ID Card

Shortly after my stroke, my speech-language pathologist helped me handwrite my very first communication card. It was simple—just a few sentences explaining that I had aphasia and apraxia of speech—but it was powerful.

I remember using it for the first time when I took an Uber to visit my mother in the hospital. I showed it to the driver so he’d understand why my speech might sound different or take me a little longer. He nodded, smiled, and said, “Take your time.” That moment gave me courage. I realized that sometimes people just need a little help knowing what to do.

That handwritten card was the start of something important: learning to advocate for myself.

Using a Customized Communication ID Card

Since then, I’ve upgraded my system. Now I keep a digital note in the Medical ID app on my Android phone. It includes my name and photo at the top, followed by essential medical and communication information:

• Date of birth, height, weight, and blood type

• Medical conditions: “I had a stroke in 2019. I now have aphasia, apraxia of speech, dysarthria, allodynia, and right-side weakness.”

• Allergies and current medications

• Medical Notes:

  I have aphasia (language disorder), apraxia of speech, and dysarthria (speech disorders) due to a stroke.When I’m nervous, in an emergency situation, or experiencing neurofatigue, my speech can be hard to understand.Please be patient. Reduce background noise. Speak directly to me. Confirm that you understand what I’m saying. Give directions one at a time.I understand everything but sometimes need a little extra time to process.

This card would help in emergencies, at doctor visits, and even in everyday situations when I need a little help communicating.

🗝️ Tip: Keep your communication info in multiple places—a laminated card in your wallet, a photo version on your phone, and a digital Medical ID that first responders can access even from your locked screen.

Practice Together

Teaching others takes practice—just like speaking or writing.Choose a friend, partner, or family member and show them your communication card. Talk together about what helps most.

You can even practice short “scripts” for common situations, such as:

• At the doctor’s office: “Please speak slowly and write things down for me.”

• At a restaurant: “I may take a little longer to order. Thank you for your patience.”

• Meeting someone new: “I use different ways to communicate—give me a little extra time.”

• 
  

Each time you use these scripts, it gets easier—for both you and the people you’re speaking with.

Why It Matters

When you teach others how to communicate with you, you’re doing more than making conversation easier—you’re helping people see you.

You’re saying, “I’m still me. I just communicate differently.”You’re showing that patience, kindness, and understanding can make connection possible, even when words are hard.

Daily Reflection

Think of one person in your life—a friend, coworker, or neighbor—who could benefit from knowing how to communicate with you better.Share your card or a short script with them this week.

Every time you teach someone new, you make the world a little more accessible—for you and for everyone living with aphasia or apraxia.

💬 Today’s Takeaway Tip

Teach others how to meet you where you are. When people understand your communication style, connection and confidence grow on both sides.

#blogboost #aphasia #apraxia:#dysarthria #StrokeRecovery #communication

NOTE: I used ChatGPT to help with organization and to make it cohesive. Aphasia can affect speaking, reading and writing. Tools, like chatGPT, can help.