Increasing Communication Challenges for Caregivers Raise Safety Concerns in Adults with Speech Difficulties

Communication Issues among Caregivers of Adults with Speech Difficulties

A recent survey conducted by YouGov and commissioned by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) highlights the significant challenges faced by caregivers of adults with communication difficulties. The survey, which involved 522 caregivers aged 18 to 84, reveals that disruptions in communication pose daily hurdles while amplifying concerns regarding safety for these vulnerable adults.

Daily Challenges for Caregivers

Communication difficulties in adults can arise from various conditions, including strokes, traumatic brain injuries, certain types of cancer, dementia, and hearing loss. Alarmingly, the survey findings indicate that over half of the caregivers (51%) express concerns about the potential impact of communication difficulties on medical issues. These caregivers report struggling to discern if their loved ones are experiencing illness, pain, or potential dangers, with 40% admitting to such difficulties. Furthermore, one-third (33%) of caregivers acknowledge that these communication barriers negatively affect their health.

Overall, 52% report that communication difficulties occur daily. Nearly half (49%) often repeat, rephrase, or simplify what they say, with 45% doing so periodically. Yet, only a third consider this tactic effective. This frustration contributes to caregivers feeling overwhelmed, with approximately 80% stating that managing communication challenges is exhausting. Caregivers also indicate that such issues lead to feelings of frustration, sadness, and anxiety, for both themselves and their care recipients.

Need for Resources

Despite the evident need for support, over 70% of caregivers feel they require additional resources, with half wishing for better tools or strategies to communicate effectively with their loved ones. However, a staggering 60% of caregivers have not engaged with professionals who could assist in addressing communication challenges. Among those, 84% were unaware of available therapy services. This highlights a significant gap in accessing much-needed professional help.

Those who have sought assistance from audiologists and speech-language pathologists (SLPs) found it invaluable, with 88% of them affirming the effectiveness of the intervention. Linda I. Rosa-Lugo, an educational doctor and ASHA’s 2026 president, emphasizes the transformative potential of professional care for individuals dealing with communication disorders and their caregivers. She urges families to seek referrals from their physicians, noting that therapy is often covered by insurance and can significantly improve their quality of life.

Closing the Gap

To bridge the knowledge gap, ASHA is launching a new consumer-focused website, the Communication Health Support Association (CHSA), this May. The website, www.helpingyoucommunicate.org, aims to provide essential information and resources for individuals facing communication difficulties, outlining insurance coverage and directing them to nearby professionals. This initiative is vital in fostering better communication for adults with speech impairments.

As we advance through National Speech, Language, and Hearing Month, these findings serve as a crucial reminder of the work that lies ahead. Awareness, education, and access to resources are critical to support caregivers and improve the lives of those they care for, ensuring their voices are heard and understood in times of need.

For further information or to arrange interviews with ASHA experts, please reach out via email at [email protected].

Methodology

The survey data referenced comes from a poll conducted by YouGov Plc, targeting a representative sample of American adults over 18 years old who act as caregivers for individuals served by ASHA members. The fieldwork was carried out online between March 19 and March 28, 2026.

About ASHA

The ASHA serves as the national professional association for over 247,000 members and affiliates specializing in audiology, speech-language pathology, and related fields, advocating for those with communication disorders. To learn more about ASHA and its resources, visit www.asha.org.