Abstract
Long-term follow-up data of aphasic patients were studied in regard to the recovery of language functions, the acceptance of disability and return to social life. Criterions for terminating speech therapy are discussed. Adolescent and young adult aphasic patients show remarkable recoveries following intensive speech therapy. After their recovery the content of therapy changes into a training for academic or vocational skills. Among middle and old aged persons, therapeutic effects are limited for severely impaired, and only moderate and mild aphasics may recover well. When therapy aimed at facilitating language function, functional reorganization and communicative function at a chronic stage have brought a certain result, speech therapy is considered to have reached an end. Concerning emotional problems in aphasics, speech therapists are to advise patients to confront tasks which will promote their social adjustments and to accept their disabilities. By giving patients and their families appropriate information on medical personnel and institutions for their future use, speech therapy comes to an end.
