The Aphasia Center at Jefferson Moss-Magee Rehabilitation

Founded in 1996, the MossRehab Aphasia Center meets the long-term communication and psychosocial needs of individuals who have been affected by aphasia. It is a warm and welcoming place where people can find information and peer support, as well as participate in research and treatment.

 

The Aphasia Center provides focused and meaningful intervention at strategic points in the recovery process. This can occur through short-term outpatient therapy in the Advanced Clinical Therapy (ACT) program, through the various groups and classes in the Aphasia Activity Center, and through participation in research at the Moss Rehabilitation Research Institute (MRRI).

 

The Aphasia Center was founded on several basic principles:

• Recovery from aphasia involves a life-long process of re-education, adaptation and support.
• Under the right conditions, people with aphasia can continue to recover even years after the onset of aphasia.
• Participating in social, recreational and educational activities reduces isolation and helps people with aphasia and their families make psycho-social adjustments
• Individuals with aphasia and their families can play an important role in increasing public awareness of aphasia.

Services Offered

Constance Sheer Kittner Conversation Cafes (Either Virtual or In Person)

In our Constance Sheerr Kittner Conversation Cafes, members have the opportunity to have their voices heard in a supportive environment. Adult conversation and social interaction are encouraged, with all group members practicing the use of successful communication strategies. Members share “recipes for success” for coping with aphasia and enjoying life. Connie’s Cafes generally run for 10 weeks each (note: the summer session may be shorter) and are offered four times each year (winter, spring, summer and fall semesters). All groups are held virtually. Group placement is determined by a speech language pathologist, based on the individual’s skills.

Constance Sheer Kittner Conversation Cafes for individuals living with Primary Progressive Aphasia (Virtual)

In our Constance Sheerr Kittner Conversation Cafes, members have the opportunity to have their voices heard in a supportive environment. Adult conversation and social interaction are encouraged, with all group members practicing the use of successful communication strategies. Members share “recipes for success” for coping with aphasia and enjoying life. Connie’s Cafes generally run for 10 weeks each (note: the summer session may be shorter) and are offered four times each year (winter, spring, summer and fall semesters). All groups are held virtually. Group placement is determined by a speech language pathologist, based on the individual’s skills. We also offer a virtual breakout room for care partners

Talking Book Club (Either Virtual or In Person)

The Talking Book Club was organized for those who miss the pleasure of reading and discussing books that others are talking about. Our “Talking Book Club” members listen to books on tape while following along in the corresponding printed book. The club meets weekly to discuss the readings and, as in other book clubs, to socialize.

Reta's Games Groups Presents: Virtual Variety Hour (Virtual)

Our Activity Center offers a weekly virtual variety hour that provides an opportunity for people to use their communication skills while having fun doing things like play word games, go on virtual field trips, listen to music, and more!

Education Programs (Either Virtual or In Person)

Most people have never heard of the word “aphasia” until someone they know is touched by this disorder. As a result, people with aphasia, their families and friends have a lot of questions about living with this condition. The MossRehab Aphasia Center organizes quarterly education programs on a wide variety of topics.

Aphasia Blog and Virtual Resource Library (Virtual)

Our blog is intended as a resource for people with aphasia and co-survivors, as well as for clinicians and students

Advanced Clinical Therapy Program (In Person)

The Advanced Clinical Therapy Program is a specialized outpatient program, developed for people with chronic/persistent or progressive aphasia. Aphasia Center clinicians have access to the very latest research, often conducted on campus at the Moss Rehabilitation Research Institute (MRRI). Each individual undergoes a comprehensive assessment using standard aphasia tests and specialized tests developed by researchers at MRRI and other research facilities. The clinicians use this cutting edge research and computer technology to design a program for each individual that emphasizes effective home practice routines using computers whenever possible. To qualify for the ACT program, the individual with aphasia must be at least six months post-onset of chronic aphasia or have a diagnosis of primary progressive aphasia. Prior to admission, an Aphasia Center clinician may request a prescreening interview and/or review of medical and therapy records to determine eligibility for additional treatment. Eligible patients participate in therapy two to three times a week.