ABSTRACT
Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) are now as likely to assess and treat individuals with adult-onset speech and language disorders related to neurodegenerative processes. Moreover, case studies allow readers to see the complex interrelationships that exist between language and communication, and an individual’s social functioning, activities of daily living and much else besides. The complex interplay between these factors is all but completely occluded from view in experimental studies of people with neurodegenerative disorders. The central focus of each case study is on the implications of a neurodegenerative disorder for a person’s speech, language and communication skills. In the communication section, a detailed analysis of language is undertaken, from phonology, morphology and syntax to vocabulary, semantics, pragmatics and discourse. Linguistic analysis is conducted on extended language samples recorded by the author during visits to participants’ homes or during online meetings, with examples presented for illustration.
