Cognitive Rehab Strategies for the Adult Population

Cognitive-communication disorders are defined as problems with communication that have an underlying cause in a cognitive deficit rather than a language or speech deficit. Acquired cognitive-communication deficits may occur after a stroke, tumor, traumatic brain injury, progressive degenerative brain disorder, or other neurological damage. A cognitive- communication disorder results from impaired functioning of one or more cognitive processes. Cognitive processes include attention, orientation, memory, judgment, thought organization, problem-solving, reasoning, languageprocessing, executive functioning, and metacognition.

These cognitive processes are not isolated abilities; they are constantly working together as a person performs activities of daily living (ADLs), solves problems, sequences important tasks, and communicates complex information. A problem with one or more cognitive functions can cause difficulty performing activities of daily living safely and efficiently as well as communicating effectively. A person with a cognitive-communication disorder may have difficulty paying attention to a conversation, staying on topic, recalling important information, responding accurately, understanding complex language, or following directions. While a speech- language pathologist may be the primary provider of cognitive rehab services, it is crucial that other therapists and rehab professionals are aware of cognitive rehab strategies and how they can be employed and utilized in their patients' treatment plans.

Highlights

• Improve awareness of how a cognitive-communication disorder affects several aspects of rehab, safety, and independent living
• Enhance your knowledge of rehab strategies used by Speech-Language Pathologists, and how these strategies can be used by OTs, PTs, and other rehab professionals when treating adults with cognitive issues

Target Audience: Physical Therapists, Physical Therapist Assistants, Occupational Therapists, Occupational Therapy Assistants, Speech-Language Pathologists