Activity Overview
Emergencies can be frightening and fast-paced, especially for someone with aphasia. Whether it’s a health crisis, accident, or calling 911, being prepared ahead of time can save lives and reduce stress. This guide offers communication tools and planning tips to navigate emergencies more safely.
Goal
Help individuals with aphasia and their families prepare for emergencies with simple communication supports and safety planning.
What to Expect
- Recognize the Emergency → Call for Help → Give Key Information → Receive Emergency Response → Follow Up Care
- May involve calling 911, visiting an ER, or communicating with first responders
- It can occur at home, in public, while driving, or during another routine activity
Preparation Tips
- Create an emergency folder with:
- The person’s photo, Medical ID card, and emergency contacts
- List of medications, allergies, and health conditions (this can be done with simple bullet points
- “I have aphasia” alert card or bracelet
- Post visual emergency instructions near the phone (and keep your phone charged)
- Practice pointing to key information or using yes/no responses, communication supports/boards, a whiteboard, and a photo of the body is helpful.
- Inform your local police/fire department (non-emergency number) that someone in your home has aphasia; some communities have special needs registries, too.
Communication Supports
- Carry and show cards such as:
- “I have aphasia. I understand you, but I have trouble speaking.”
- “Call my [family member/caregiver] at [phone number].”
- Use yes/no cards or thumbs up/down
- Point to body parts or symptoms on a picture board
- Use an app or printed form to communicate:
- “Chest pain” / “Dizzy” / “Allergic to…”
- If you are in the hospital, a wonderful app to use is from Med Concerns.
Support for Family & Care Partners
- Create and update an emergency info kit
- Help the person with aphasia rehearse pointing or sharing key facts
- Stay calm and be a communication bridge if needed
- Make sure all care partners or aides know where emergency info is stored
Real-Life Examples
“I …here (points to wrist) wear it, the information and too in my this (pulls out wallet).— Linda, person with aphasia
“We printed a one-page emergency form with photos and contact info. It’s on the fridge and in her purse.” — Marcus, care partner
