16/06/2026
This is a really helpful poster around the different types of Aphasia.
When Words Become Difficult: Understanding the Types of Aphasia
Most people think aphasia means “can’t talk.”
In reality, aphasia is much more complex. It is a language disorder caused by damage to the brain, often from stroke, traumatic brain injury, or certain types of dementia.
Different parts of the brain control different aspects of language. Depending on where the damage occurs, communication can be affected in very different ways.
🧠 Broca’s Aphasia
The person knows what they want to say but struggles to get the words out. Speech is slow, effortful, and often limited to short phrases.
🧠 Wernicke’s Aphasia
Speech may sound fluent, but the words may not make sense. This is sometimes called “word salad.” Understanding language is often impaired as well.
🧠 Conduction Aphasia
The person can understand language and speak fairly well but has difficulty repeating words or phrases.
🧠 Global Aphasia
The most severe form. Speaking, understanding, reading, and writing may all be significantly affected.
🧠 Transcortical Motor Aphasia
Similar to Broca’s aphasia. The person speaks very little spontaneously but can often repeat words and sentences accurately.
🧠 Transcortical Sensory Aphasia
Similar to Wernicke’s aphasia. Speech is fluent and repetition is preserved, but understanding language is impaired.
For families, the most important thing to remember is this:
Aphasia affects language. It does not erase the person.
The thoughts, emotions, preferences, humor, and need for connection often remain long after words become difficult.
Slow down.
Listen patiently.
Give extra time.
Look beyond the words.
Sometimes the most meaningful conversations happen without saying much at all.
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