Finding the Right Word
Words often escape us—whether as a consequence of aging, a neurological condition, or speaking multiple languages. We may occasionally forget specific or uncommon terms.
Zeinab Garda, MHSc SLP
What can you do when you just can’t find the word?
Here are a few things you could try:
1. Describing the word
- What does it look like?
- Where is it kept or located?
- If it’s an item, what is it used for?
2. Using gestures, sketches, pointing, or related objects to help refer to the word.
3. Revisiting the word—it may come to you later.
4. Letting people know if you would like help by guessing the word or asking questions.
- You might say something like, “What is that thing doctors wear around their neck called again?” to cue the listener.
Word-finding difficulties can also be a result of a neurological event such as a stroke or head injury. They may also occur with neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease.
If words are often escaping you or a loved one and causing daily frustration during interactions with family members or caregivers, a Speech-Language Pathologist can help. A Speech-Language Pathologist can identify additional strategies or suggest treatment options to address speech and language concerns.