11/21/2025
Happy Fun Fact Friday!
Let’s talk about the ICF - a game-changer in understanding aphasia recovery 🧠
When we think about recovery from aphasia, it’s about so much more than just tests in a clinic. That’s where the ICF (International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health) comes in! It’s a holistic framework used by healthcare professionals worldwide to look at the whole person, not just their diagnosis.
Here’s how it breaks down for aphasia:
* Health Condition: The aphasia itself, often resulting from a stroke.
* Body Functions & Structures: The specific language challenges (e.g., difficulty finding words, understanding speech).
* Activity: How those challenges affect daily tasks (e.g., using the phone, ordering coffee).
* Participation: The most important part- engaging in life roles (e.g., being a friend, returning to work, socializing)
* Environmental Factors: How surroundings help or hinder (e.g., supportive friends, aphasia-friendly info, or noisy cafes).
* Personal Factors: Individual traits like confidence, past experiences, and coping styles.
Why does this matter? Because it shows that successful recovery isn’t just about improving speech, - it’s about building a supportive environment and helping people reconnect with the life they love.
