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Unraveling the Interplay Between Cognitive and Linguistic Deficits in Aphasia: Insights into Naming, Reaction Time, Working Memory and Executive Function
Seyed Saeed Ahmadi1 , Mohyeddin Teimouri sangani2 , Mahshid Hozhabr2 , Ahmad Poormohammad3 , Davood Sobhani-Rad *2
1- Deptartment of Communication Sciences and Disorders, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
2- Department of Speech Therapy, School of Paramedical and Rehabilitation Sciences, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
3- Researcher and Neuroscientist, Elumind Centres for Brain Excellence, Vancouver, Canada
Abstract:   (10 Views)
Aphasia, an acquired multimodality language disorder caused by brain damage, impacts various linguistic and cognitive skills. Naming is a key aspect of language processing. This skill relies heavily on cognitive functions like reaction time, working memory and executive functions, which together support effective communication. Understanding the relationships between these components can provide critical insights for improving rehabilitation strategies. This study involved 20 individuals diagnosed with Broca’s aphasia and 20 neurologically healthy controls. Participants were assessed using tasks measuring rapid automatized naming (RAN), reaction time, working memory, and executive function. People with aphasia demonstrated significantly lower performance in all assessed domains compared to controls(p<0.001). RAN scores were markedly lower, with performance improving in high-context environments(p<0.001). Reaction times were significantly delayed in both linguistic and non-linguistic tasks(p<0.001). Correlation analysis revealed positive relationships between RAN, working memory, and executive functions(p<0.001). However, RAN showed no direct correlation with reaction times(p>0.05). The findings emphasize the interconnectedness of cognitive and linguistic processes in aphasia, with working memory and executive function playing significant roles in language performance. Contextual visual cues notably enhanced naming accuracy and speed. These results underscore the need for integrated cognitive-linguistic rehabilitation approaches to improve communication skills and quality of life for individuals with aphasia.
Keywords: Aphasia, Naming, Reaction Time, Working Memory, Executive Function
     
Article type: Original Research Articles | Subject: Speech therapy
Received: 2025/08/16 | Accepted: 2025/09/5
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