Aphasia is a language disorder caused by an injury to portions of the brain, usually the result of stroke or other brain injury. Speaking, reading, writing and understanding speech may be affected to varying degrees. Living with aphasia can be a frustrating and isolating experience and the psychosocial consequences can be as devastating as the language loss itself. The MossRehab Aphasia Center was developed to meet the long-term communication and psychosocial needs of individuals who have been affected by aphasia. While most individuals with aphasia participate in an intensive speech and language therapy program immediately following an injury, speech and language problems generally persist. However, research has shown that with continued treatment many of these patients can continue to make significant gains in the years following the initial injury. For these individuals, the MossRehab Aphasia Center not only provides a specialized outpatient therapy program, it offers opportunities to participate in cutting-edge research, a computer lab, and an array of educational programs, activities and support groups, all designed to foster language recovery, conversational interactions, support, and life-long learning.

Program Focus

In most cases, patients who seek treatment from the MossRehab Aphasia Center have acquired aphasia from a stroke or other traumatic brain injury. The Advanced Clinical Therapy (ACT) Program is a specialized outpatient therapy program developed for patients with chronic or persisting aphasia greater than six months. The ACT program also treats patients with primary progressive aphasia, a degenerative condition that primarily affects language. Using current research findings and computer technology, the ACT program is designed to treat a variety of language disorders such as difficulty recalling words, speaking in sentences, reading or writing. Treatment is typically short-term and focused on one or two aspects of the language disorder with an emphasis on developing an effective home practice routine, using computers whenever possible. For patients who live outside of Philadelphia, the ACT program offers an in-depth evaluation and a treatment plan that can be carried out by the patient’s treating clinician. In addition to this clinical program, some patients with aphasia may be eligible to participate in one or more studies within the Aphasia Research Program where internationally recognized researchers are conducting studies to gain a better understanding of aphasia and how best to treat it. Additionally, the Aphasia Center sponsors educational programs throughout the year, a computer lab, conversation and book groups as well as activity and support groups; all crucial to long-term recovery and re-engagement into the community.

Special Program Features

1. Research
   Clinical connection leads to advanced diagnostics and treatment protocols: Aphasia Center clinicians have access to the very latest research, often conducted on campus at Moss Rehabilitation Research Institute (MRRI) and use these findings in their treatment programs. Patients may undergo extensive in depth evaluations using both traditional and specialized tests developed by MRRI and its research affiliates to gain a better understanding of their aphasia and how best to treat it. In addition to having had extensive clinical experience, our speech–language pathologists in the ACT program are also research trained.
    
2. The Aphasia Center provides focused and meaningful intervention at strategic points in the recovery process. This can occur through participation in research at MRRI, through short-term therapy in the ACT program, language practice in the computer lab, or through the various group activities in the Aphasia Activity Center.
    
3. Emphasis on self-learning: The Aphasia Center programs are designed to make self-learning possible and effective. Computers are available with preprogrammed exercises, support staff to guide and structure the interaction and fostering communication groups in which patients can practice and use their communication skills in a supportive environment.
    
4. MRRI researchers and clinicians are at the forefront of technology development and research. MossTalk Words®, developed by MossRebab researchers and clinicians, and SentenceShaper™ developed by Dr. Marcia Linebarger are specialized software programs that have undergone extensive research at MossRehab and other research institutions. MossTalk Words®, provides hours of practice in comprehending and producing words, phrases and sentences. Our speech-language pathologists routinely use MossTalk Words® to effectively select and deliver therapy exercises and track results. Patients are taught to use MossTalk independently at home or with a volunteer in the computer lab. In addition to MossTalk, Aphasia Center staff is trained to use other commercial software programs including SentenceShaper™, a unique program that aids patients in formulating and producing more complete and informative language. The Aphasia Center also trains volunteers to support and encourage patients as they learn to use the technology in our computer lab.
    
5. Social approach to rehabilitation. Our Activity Center offers educational programs, conversation and support groups, a book club and a place to socialize -- all crucial to long term recovery and reintegration into community activities. Professional and peer led groups provide opportunities for conversational interactions, psychosocial support and education.

Voices of MossRehab Aphasia Center (VOMAC) is the driving force behind the Aphasia Center. VOMAC volunteers organize events, run group activities, spearhead fundraising events and advocate for aphasia awareness. The following activities are currently offered:

1. Women with aphasia support group
2. Men with aphasia support group
3. Talking Book Club
4. Card players
5. Conversation groups
6. Computer lab

Locations and Office Hours

MossRehab
1200 West Tabor Road, Philadelphia, PA 19141

MossRehab
60 Township Line Road, Elkins Park, PA 19027