New Classes at the Aphasia Community Center

New Classes are a Hit!

In January, the Aphasia Community Center rolled out four new classes. All four classes were hits! If you didn’t get to join us last month, you get another chance in February.

AAC Group Chat (Augmentative and Alternative Communication)

AAC Group Chat focuses on communication using AAC devices. Meet other people with Aphasia who use a device to communicate.  Appropriate for all types of devices used to communicate.

Organizer: Becky Reese

Contact Organizer

In-person

Cost: Free

Appropriate for people with Aphasia who use or are exploring a communication device.

 

Art Class

People with Aphasia can explore and enjoy creating art projects in Art Class, including drawing, painting, clay, collage, design, and more.  The class will enhance communication, socialization, and creative skills for people with Aphasia. An Art Instructor leads the class.

Organizer: Montessa Lizaso

Contact Organizer 

In-person

Cost: Free

Appropriate for all levels of Aphasia.

 

Conversation Group

Conversation Group promotes casual discussions related to specific themes or topics.  The class will enhance communication and socialization for people with Aphasia. A Speech-Language Pathologist leads the class.

Organizer: Bekah Cloud, CCC-SLP

Contact Organizer  

In-person

Cost: Free

Appropriate for all levels of Aphasia.

 

 Writing Group

The Writing Group focuses on spelling and using words, phrases, and sentences related to a theme.  A Speech-Language Pathologist leads the class.

Organizer: Elyse Gordon, CCC-SLP

Contact Organizer

In-person

Cost: Free

Appropriate for all levels of Aphasia.

 

Who can attend Aphasia Community Center classes?

Only members may attend classes. To be eligible for membership in the Aphasia Community Center, you…

  • Must be an adult with Aphasia after a stroke.
  • Typically have chronic Aphasia (greater than six months after aphasia onset).
  • Must be medically stable to participate in a community-based program.
  • Are independent in the activities of daily living or accompanied by a care provider responsible for assisting.
  • Cognitively and physically able to participate in group programs for a full hour or more.
  • Can safely and actively participate at the ACC.
  • May range in aphasia severity from very minimal to severe

If you meet these requirements and want to consider membership, you can complete an application form HERE. You will be interviewed in person after the Aphasia Community Center receives your application form.

Persons with primary progressive Aphasia or those with co-existing dementia are typically not eligible for membership. Still, they are encouraged to take part in the Suncoast Aphasia Support Group and social activities and events offered in our aphasia community.

How Members Register for Classes and Events

You will receive a weekly email listing upcoming classes and events as a member. This weekly email lets you register for a class or event in two ways.

  • RSVP Here button: Enter brief information to make your reservation by clicking this button.
  • Contact the Organizer link: Each class listing has a link to the Organizer’s email address. The Organizer can take your reservation and answer any questions.

In addition, you can visit the Aphasia Community Center Calendar to register. You will see the organizer’s email address when you click on the event. Feel free to contact them directly.

We appreciate your registration to know who will attend and plan for the proper support, supplies, and/or food.