Ahmadi S S, Teimouri sangani M, Hozhabr M, Poormohammad A, Sobhani-Rad D. Understanding Cognitive and Linguistic Deficits in Aphasia through Naming Reaction Time Working Memory and Executive Function. Iranian Rehabilitation Journal 2025; 23 (4)
URL:
http://irj.uswr.ac.ir/article-1-2600-en.html
1- Deptartment of Communication Sciences and Disorders, University of South Carolina, Columbia, 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: (527 Views)
Objectives: 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.
Methods: 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.
Results: 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).
Discussion: The findings indicate an association between cognitive and linguistic processes in aphasia, with working memory and executive function significantly related to language performance. Contextual visual cues were also associated with improvements in naming accuracy and speed. These results highlight the potential value of integrated cognitive-linguistic rehabilitation approaches for enhancing communication skills and quality of life in individuals with aphasia.
Article type:
Original Research Articles |
Subject:
Speech therapy Received: 2025/08/16 | Accepted: 2025/09/18 | Published: 2025/12/9
Send email to the article author