AN IRISH START-up has launched a new set of apps for iOS and Android that provide home-based therapy for families whose loves ones have communication difficulties arising from stroke, brain injury and a range of other conditions.

Neuro Hero’s four ‘Talk Around IT’ apps were launched by Minister Sean Sherlock yesterday and founder Dr Aviva Cohen.

The word-finding technology was inspired when Cohen’s husband, Steve, survived a stroke which left him with severe expressive aphasia.

The apps are designed to help those with word-finding difficulties re-learn everyday words. Each of the four word-finding apps has 50 pictures to name within a specific theme, such as common personal objects, animals and natural objects, masculine objects and household objects.

Also launched yesterday was a free version of the app focusing on natural objects. The technology has been developed for more than two years and the apps were designed in conjunction with speech and language therapists.

Research shows that increasing the hours spent on these exercises significantly increases the chance of recovery and the company said that by bringing the therapy home, people can work on their rehabilitation for as many hours a day as they choose.

“I know firsthand how stroke, brain injury and other illnesses can lead to isolation and despair,” commented Cohen yesterday. “I am determined to find practical, cost-effective ways to help families by creating effective home-based therapies and useful tools like our short videos. We are committed to bringing these solutions to those who need them in Ireland and all over the world.”

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