What is Cognition?

Quite simply, cognition means thinking.

Cognitive functions are those mental processes that lead to the acquisition of knowledge and allow us to carry out our daily tasks. They allow us to have an active role in the processes of receiving, choosing, transforming, storing, processing and retrieval of information, allowing us to navigate the world around us.

After an injury to the brain - from a stroke, brain injury, infection or tumor - many people experience cognitive impairment, or "cognitive-communication" difficulties and can include disruption with:

• Orientation

• Attention

• Memory

• Insight and judgment

• Organization

• Language

• Processing speed

• Problem solving

Cognitive-communication disorders can occur alone or in combination with other conditions, such as dysarthria (unclear speech), apraxia (difficulty planning motor movements to speak), or aphasia (impaired use of language).  A decline in cognitive function can certainly be a normal part of the aging process - or as part of progressive neurological conditions such as Parkinson's Disease and dementia.

What You Might Notice

People with cognitive-communication disorders often have trouble participating in conversations (understanding what is said or conveying their thoughts effectively). Sometimes they may have trouble reasoning and making decisions. They may have trouble remembering their conversations and experiences. Sometimes they have trouble responding in an appropriate manner, depending on which areas of the brain have been affected.

Speech Therapy Tacoma can help

Speech Therapy Tacoma provides expert assessment and personalized treatment for adults with cognitive-communication challenges.  Therapy is especially helpful for people experiencing dementia and rehabilitating from a stroke or brain injury.  Therapy usually includes a combination of techniques.  The primary focus is to restore as much function as possible, compensate for deficits, and educate a person and their family about their difficulties and provide tools and strategies to make everyday life a little easier.

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