Pattern of language recovery relating to bilingualism in Ao Naga and English language: A case presentation

Abstract

Background: Most of the population of the world is bilingual and the language emergence process in bilingual aphasics can be indifferent based on various factors. The similarity between First Language (L1) and Second Language(L2), age of second language(L2) acquisition, and usage of L2 are some of the possible factors that might contribute in the emergence of languages in Aphasic patients. The aim of the study is to introspect the early intervention of language therapy in a bilingual aphasic with Ao Naga as the L1 and English as L2.
Case Presentation & Methods: A n adult 42-year-old male was referred to a tertiary health centre with a complaint of altered sensorium. Later the patient was referred to the Otolaryngologist and SLP(Speech Language Pathologist) with the complaint of limited speech and language skills and difficulty in swallowing. When the SLP assessed the patient with WAB-R(Western Aphasia Batter-Revised) and N-DAT(Newcastle Dysarthria Assessment) and MASA(Mann Assessment of Swallowing Ability),he was diagnosed with Broca’s Aphasia with Spastic Dysarthria and Oro-pharyngeal Dysphagia.

Results: WAB-R scores improved when assessed after post-therapy of 10 sessions of 45 minutes duration and showed significant (p<0.01) strong positive correlations and significant differences on the pre and post-therapy WAB scores. Parallel emergence of L1 and L2 was seen during and post-therapy in the patient.
Conclusion: The study concludes that in bilingualism aphasia, both the L1 and L2 can emerge at the same time. The L2 might in fact, contribute more in recovering the L1 based on usage, proficiency, and exposure.