Communication disability quiz

Scenario 1

Mr T comes in to the Council office to complain that his rubbish has not been collected. His speech is slurred.

Question: Is he drunk?

Answer:

Muscles used for speech can become weak as a result of, for example, Parkinson's. Speech can sound slurred. This can be more noticeable when an individual is tired or upset.

Scenario 2

Ms A (18 years old) arrives late for the first session of a training course. She seems flustered.

Question: Has she just overslept?

Answer:

A person who stammers may have great difficulty saying their own name. They may avoid situations were they have to introduce themselves.

Scenario 3

A group discussion is being held about the closure of the local swimming pool. Mrs D is the first to ask a question. One and a half hours later she is just staring out of the window.

Question: Has she lost interest?

Answer:

After a brain injury, an individual may be able to understand what is said for short periods of time. It will become harder during a longer meeting.

Scenario 4

Ms F says she wants to be involved in the campaign to set up a community garden. She is sent an invitation for the first meeting which starts at 2.00 pm. She does not turn up.

Question: Does she really want to be involved?

Answer:

Some people find it easier to communicate at certain times of the day because of fatigue at other times. For example this can result from multiple sclerosis. They may choose not to attend events scheduled when they will be tired.

Scenario 5

Mr T's speech is not understandable. A consultation group is being arranged to draw up a local response to a supermarket development.

Question: Is there any point in inviting Mr T to attend?

Answer:

A stroke can impact on communication in many different ways.

A person may be able to understand everything but not be able to speak. But they may be able to write instead.

Other people may be able to speak. But they may not understand everything that is said.

An individual needs to be asked how they prefer to communicate.

Scenario 6

Mr E wants to take part in the survey about opening hours of the local GP surgery. He is able to say "yes" and "no". He has no other speech.

Question: Should he be sent a written questionnaire only?

Answer:

Some people do find written information easier to understand and writing more effective than speech. But if someone is able to say "yes" and "no" then they can take part in a 1:1 interview.

A series of closed questions can be used. They require a one word answer.

For example

Closed: Do you think the surgery should be open in the evening?

Open: When should the surgery be open?

Scenario 7

Mrs R is upset and agitated. She has just been told that she cannot see her regular physiotherapist because of staff sickness.

Question: Is she being unreasonable?

Answer:

Some people with communication support needs become very anxious with new people.

Scenario 8

A summer play scheme has been arranged. The first activity is a team game. The rules are explained. F refuses to take part. He becomes very angry.

Question: Is he being difficult?

Answer:

More than 1 in 10 children and young people in Scotland are affected by a speech and language impairment. This affects their ability to understand and speak up for themselves. This can lead to frustration and anger.

That is the end of the Communication Disability Quiz.

Return to Communication support needs section