How to treat the side effects of stroke

Stroke can lead to speech and language problems, memory loss, vision loss as well as paralysis. The type and severity of side effects is unique to each person. At least ¼ of all stroke survivors experience a language impairment. This might involve the ability to speak, write and/or understand spoken and written language.

One of the key ways in which the side effects of a stroke can be treated is carefully directed, well-focused and repetitive activities. These activities need to be tailored to the side effects of a stroke. The reason these activities are important is that repetitive practice helps to move abilities located within the affected part of the brain to other regions. In short, it’s driving the rewiring of brain circuits, also known as neuroplasticity.

Why flashcards can help

Flashcards are an excellent resource for many of the activities that are helpful after a stroke. There are 3 main reasons:

  • They are designed to be used many times over.
    This repetition supports the development of new circuits within the brain

  • They are simple in design.
    This simplicity allows a person to focus on one concept at a time, setting them up for success.

  • They can be used in so many ways.
    The same set might be used for any number of touching, matching, sorting, saying and describing activities. This means they can address a range of language, memory and thinking challenges and their use can evolve as a person’s abilities progress.

What our flashcards can teach

Our flashcards support many areas of teaching after a stroke. These include:

  • Vocabulary development.
    A set of familiar words within a person’s language.

  • Articulation.
    The ability to form clear and distinct sounds that come together to form words.

  • Syntax.
    The arrangement of words or phrases to create well-formed sentences.

  • Morphology.
    Meaningful units of language used appropriately. Grammar is associated with morphology.

  • Memory.
    The process of taking in, processing, storing and recalling information.

  • Cognition.
    The mental action of acquiring knowledge and understanding through thought, experience and the senses.

How to use our flashcards

Each  of our flashcard sets includes an easy to use set of instructions. There are a mix of matching, touching, sorting, acting, saying and describing activities.

These activities are typically organised in order of difficulty, with the easier activities described at the start of the guide and the more challenging ones described further on. There are activities that are appropriate for people:

  • of any age
  • who are verbal or non verbal
  • at different stages in their level of ability

Product suggestions

Here’s some recommendations about which products to choose and why.

Vocabulary Development
The Nouns and Categories Sets are ideal for enhancing a person’s vocabulary, which is often a focus of teaching after a stroke. A robust vocabulary improves all areas of communication including listening, speaking, reading and writing.

Syntax
Verbs 1 and 2 and Go Togethers can be used in so many ways. This includes a focus on syntax – putting together well formed sentences – which is the basis for clear and concise communication.

Abstract language concepts
The Prepositions and Opposites Sets are all about teaching abstract language concepts. Understanding and using abstract language can be affected by stroke. Building on these extends a person’s thinking abilities.

Memory/Cognition (thinking)
Our Nouns and Go Togethers Sets can be used for a range of memory and thinking activities. Memory loss and an impaired ability to think clearly are common side effects of stroke.

Or – our entire flashcard range in 2 premium value box sets

  • 520 captivating cards

  • Language Library
    Includes Categories, Go Togethers, Emotions (Vol 1 & 2), Opposites, Prepositions and Verbs (Vol 1 & 2)

  • Nouns
    12 types of nouns – animals, appliances, clothes, food, furniture, household, locations, nature, occupations, rooms, shapes and transport

  • Carefully organised with dividers and color coded cards for ease of use

  • Step by step instructions included with each set

What our valued customers say

I purchased three different packs of cards – Go together, Prepositions and Verbs – and all have been invaluable for helping my husband regain some of his words and improving his memory after having a stroke.

Ruth

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