Digital app improves speech in stroke patients
A new digital platform significantly improves speech for people with a language disorder. This is according to an NIHR-supported study.
The app, iTalkBetter, has been designed for users with the language disorder, aphasia. It analyses speech in real time and provides feedback for the person using it. It allows them to practise over 200 commonly used words in their own time and without limits.
It has been developed by the Neurotherapeutics Group at University College of London’s Queen Square Institute of Neurology. It was also supported by Wellcome Trust.
Aphasia occurs when a person suffers brain damage. This can lead to speech or language difficulties. The most common causes are stroke, severe head injury and brain tumours.
Symptoms vary widely from person to person. Most people have trouble with their speaking. They may also experience issues with writing, reading and listening.