Survey Highlights Need for Communication Support Among Caregivers of Adults with Speech Difficulties

Communication Challenges Faced by Caregivers

A recent national survey commissioned by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and conducted by YouGov has shed light on the daily struggles faced by caregivers of adults with communication disorders. This survey, conducted in March among 522 caregivers across the U.S., highlights significant concerns regarding the safety and well-being of these adults, shedding light on an often-overlooked issue in the healthcare conversation.

Current State of Communication Difficulties

Communication difficulties are not rare among adults, stemming from various health issues such as strokes, traumatic brain injuries, cancer, dementia, and hearing loss. The findings from the survey indicate that more than half (52%) of caregivers encounter communication challenges on a daily basis, making everyday interactions extremely demanding. In fact, nearly half (49%) of respondents reported frequently needing to restructure their communication by repeating statements, rephrasing words, or simplifying their language to ensure understanding. Strikingly, only one-third found these strategies effective.

The mental toll this takes is also concerning. Many caregivers reported feeling exhausted, with 80% stating that managing these communication challenges is draining. The emotional impact extends not only to caregivers—many of whom reported experiencing frustration, sadness, and anxiety—but also to the individuals they care for, resulting in feelings of embarrassment, sadness, and anger among those facing communication barriers.

Safety Concerns

Perhaps one of the most alarming aspects of the survey results is the indication of potential health risks stemming from communication difficulties. Over half (51%) of caregivers expressed worry that barriers to communication could negatively affect their ability to address medical issues faced by those they care for. Furthermore, 40% of caregivers indicated that these difficulties hinder their capacity to determine whether the individual they care for is in pain, sick, or experiencing other unsafe situations.

A concerning 33% of caregivers reported that communication challenges have had a negative effect on their own health and well-being, emphasizing the far-reaching impacts of these struggles.

Demand for Support Resources

The desire for improved resources becomes apparent, as over 70% of caregivers indicated a need for more help and support. Half of them expressed a desire for better tools and strategies to enhance communication with their care recipients. However, more than 60% of caregivers had never consulted with professionals who specialize in services for addressing communication and cognitive challenges. Among those who did not seek help, a staggering 84% were unaware or only slightly aware of available therapeutic services.

Research shows that those caregivers who have engaged with professionals, like speech-language pathologists or audiologists, have seen benefits. A notable 88% of caregivers who worked with these specialists reported positive experiences.

Future Assistance

ASHA’s 2026 president, Linda I. Rosa-Lugo, underscores the importance of early intervention, stating, “Services from audiologists or speech-language pathologists can significantly enhance the daily lives of individuals with communication issues and their caregivers.” She encourages caregivers to discuss referrals with their doctors or care teams, as many services may be partially or fully covered by insurance.

In response to these findings, ASHA will be launching a new resource website for its consumer branch, the Communication Health Support Association (CHSA), aimed at providing information regarding communication disorders, insurance coverage, and locating professionals by region. This resource will be publicly accessible at www.helpingyoucommunicate.org.

The survey highlights not only the everyday challenges faced by caregivers of individuals with communication disorders but also the pressing need for more awareness and resources to help them manage effectively. As awareness grows, it is crucial for society to address these challenges and ensure that caregivers receive the support they need to navigate this often complex landscape successfully.