According to ASHA, a communication disorder is “an impairment in the ability to receive, send, process, and comprehend concepts or verbal, nonverbal and graphic symbol systems. A communication disorder may be evident in the processes of hearing, language, and/or speech. A communication disorder may range in severity from mild to profound. It may be developmental or acquired. Individuals may demonstrate one or any combination of communication disorders. A communication disorder may result in a primary disability or it may be secondary to other disabilities.”
In adulthood a variety of communication disorders can develop as a result of brain injury, whether it was a traumatic injury or a result of bleeding within the brain. Other times it can develop as a result of neurodegenerative diseases.
Speech therapy is frequently recommended in recovery phase as soon as the patient is able. While it does not always restore his/her abilities completely, outcome is definitely better with intervention.