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 - Final

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.

What can I do at home ?

1. Describe words to yourself.
2. Think of synonyms for words that are hard to remember.
3. Make a habit of incorporating gestures into your speech to add visual support to your words.

Looking for more support ?

Learn about Speech Therapy at NeuroGym
Book Speech Therapy Online

Sara Seaman, MScPT

Physiotherapist, Pelvic Health Physiotherapist

Sara became a physiotherapist to help people achieve a healthier and more active lifestyle. She has a passion for helping individuals regain abilities they’ve lost and participate in activities they’ve been unable to due to neurological injuries or conditions.

After obtaining her BSc in Human Kinetics at St. Francis Xavier University in Nova Scotia, Sara traveled even further to complete her Master’s of Physical Therapy at the University of Limerick in Ireland. Despite loving to travel, Sara is an Ottawa native and ultimately decided to come back home to begin her career. After joining NeuroGym® in 2021, Sara has thrived in the field of neurorehabilitation, applying her knowledge and skills to a diverse clientele.

Sara’s active approach to therapy and focus on working towards improved abilities and independence aligns itself well with NeuroGym®’s movement enabling methodology. Using her education and experience, Sara develops individualized treatment plans and provides education for each client based on their specific goals and abilities.

Most recently, Sara completed The Physical Therapy Approach to Female Urinary Incontinence course from the Canadian Pelvic Health Academy and is now doing Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy for female patients.

When Sara isn’t at the clinic, she can be found travelling, hiking, skiing, and spending time with family, friends, and her dog Maggie.

Qualifications:

  • BSc in Human Kinetics – St. Francis Xavier University (2018)
  • MSc PT – University of Limerick (2021)
  • Registered Physiotherapist – College of Physiotherapist’s of Ontario
  • The Physical Therapy Approach to Female Urinary Incontinence course from the Canadian Pelvic Health Academy

 

Treatment Language: English