Emergency communication card (aphasia/nonverbal): printable script
A stroke survivor may know exactly what they need but be unable to say it quickly in an emergency. This lesson teaches you how to create a plain communication card that protects dignity, speeds care, and gives responders the facts they need.
Educational only
Educational only — not medical advice.
Get help now
If you think someone is having a stroke, call your local emergency number now. Do not wait to see if symptoms improve.
Key takeaways
- Explain why aphasia and nonverbal communication needs should be planned for before emergencies
- Create an emergency communication card with medical, contact, and communication details
- Use aphasia-friendly communication strategies while preserving the survivor's role in decisions
Why this matters
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What the card should say first
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Include the safety facts
- Name, date of birth, emergency contact, and preferred language
- Stroke history and baseline communication or mobility limits
- Current medicines, especially blood thinners or antiplatelets
- Allergies and major conditions such as diabetes, atrial fibrillation, seizures, kidney disease, or swallowing restrictions
- Best communication method: yes/no questions, writing, pictures, gestures, phone app, interpreter, or extra time
Make it usable in real life
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How others should communicate
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In practice
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Common misconceptions
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Key takeaways
- A communication card explains the survivor's communication needs before stress makes them harder to explain.
- Include emergency contact, medicines, allergies, baseline limits, and the best way to communicate.
- Keep copies where emergencies happen: wallet, phone, go-bag, medication folder, and home entry area.
- Aphasia-friendly communication means speaking respectfully, waiting, using choices, and involving the survivor.
Practice check
What you’ll practice
These questions are untimed. After you answer all of them, you’ll see your score and a clear next lesson or reference step.
0 of 4 answered
References
- Tier 1American Speech-Language-Hearing Association2024Aphasia
- Tier 1American Stroke Association2024For Family Caregivers
- Tier 1Centers for Disease Control and Prevention2025Emergency Preparedness for People with Disabilities