By: Maria Clark, M.S., CF-SLP

Q: I often find myself not remembering as well as I use to. What is wrong? How can I fix this?

A: Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) can evaluate and treat cognitive linguistic difficulties. Cognitive linguistic deficits result in difficulty with thinking and the processes that all humans to function and interact with each other. There are five main domains to thinking. They are attention, memory, language, executive functioning, and visuospatial skills. The SLPs at Rainy Lake Medical Center have the knowledge and tools to treat all five areas.

Who might benefit from a cognitive linguistic evaluation?

  • Geriatrics
  • Stroke patients
  • Individuals with dementia
  • TBI patients
  • Patients with Huntington’s, Parkinson’s or ALS
  • ADHD patients
  • Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis
  • And other neurological conditions

After the evaluation process, an individualized treatment plan is created. This can include, but is not limited to:

  • memory building activities
  • completing a variety of problem solving tasks
  • working on time management, planning, and organizational skills
  • completing attention tasks with varying levels of difficulty
  • increase language and/or word finding abilities

Talk to your doctor if you believe you or a loved one is in need of a Speech-Language Pathology evaluation related to cognitive linguistic skills.

For more information on how RLMC’s Therapy and Wellness team can assist you, call 218-283-5420

Maria Clark is a Clinical Fellow Speech-Language Pathologist. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Speech and Hearing Science from Arizona State University and her Master’s degree in Communication Science Disorders from Baylor University. She has experience working with patients of all ages and in a variety of settings including hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, schools, and out-patient rehabilitation.  She treats patients who have speech and language difficulties, swallowing difficulties, and cognitive impairments.  Maria also provides services to Koochiching Health Services – Littlefork and Good Samaritan Society. She joined the RLMC team in 2022.