Facilitating communication skills in adult apraxics: application of Blissymbols in a group setting

This report describes the use of Blissymbols over a period of 8 mo with four adult aphasic patients who also exhibit severe verbal apraxia. The areas investigated include the patients' ability to use Blissymbols as a facilitating technique for communication, the capacity for learning Blissymbols, attitudes toward the use of Blissymbols, and the ability to learn Blissymbols in a group setting. Our results indicate that candidates with good auditory comprehension, good visual-perceptual skills, and a high level of motivation are more successful in using Blissymbols as a facilitating technique. Blissymbols are found to encourage verbal language and writing skills, even though not stressed. The group therapy approach provides needed motivation and proves beneficial.