Authors:

Abstract

Aim: To review the relationship between visual and communication impairments following the occur­rence of stroke.

Method: A literature review was undertaken which involved a Medline and manual search of relevant journals and transactions.

Results: Information was gathered on visual con­sequences of stroke, communication difficulties including expressive and receptive dysphasia, dys­praxia and dysarthria, and associated anatomical areas, together with the assessment and treatment options for communication impairment and the visual requirements associated with these options.

Conclusions: Vision is a major requirement in the assessment and management of communication diffi­culties and visual impairment thus affects the rehabilitation process. Appropriate relay of visual information to the multidisciplinary team is vital to making correct decisions for individual rehabilitation programmes.

Keywords: Communication, Dysphasia, Dysarthria, Inattention, Ocular motility, Rehabilitation, Stroke, Vision, Visual field