The Benefits of Language Services for Neurodivergent Individuals and People with Aphasia
Communication, the cornerstone of inclusion, can pose distinct hurdles for neurodivergent individuals and people with aphasia, a language disorder that results from a stroke or brain injury. In fact, neurodiverse individuals comprise 15-20% of the population, meaning many employees lack the language and communication support they need to do their jobs well whether they are diagnosed as neurodivergent or not. Left unaddressed, this lack of support can result in exclusion, misinterpretation, and missed opportunities.
However, with the use of language services, neurodiverse individuals and those with aphasia can connect, express themselves, and flourish in work environments, communities, and personal relationships. Organizations can foster inclusion, boost employee satisfaction, and enhance their brand’s reputation. In today’s competitive market offering language accessibility tools is not just about inclusion—it’s a strategic move that can unlock innovative ideas and groundbreaking business insights.
Let’s delve into the transformative advantages of language services and how they cater to the unique communication needs of these individuals.
Impacting neurodivergent individuals
Neurodivergent individuals, including those with autism, ADHD, or dyslexia, may encounter specific communication challenges. For example, certain people with autism may find verbal communication overwhelming and benefit from visual support or simplified text. Some individuals with ADHD may struggle with processing lengthy instructions and thrive with concise, visually structured communication.
How language services provide support:
- Speech-to-Text Technology: Popular tools like Otter.ai, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet provide live transcription and real-time captions to help employees stay engaged during meetings without missing crucial details. Devices like Google Pixel phones and platforms like Sorenson Forum offer advanced speech-to-text capabilities, ensuring accessibility for users across various platforms and workflows.
- Visual Communication Aids: Tools like Canva and Visme make creating charts, infographics, and diagrams easy, helping to simplify complex ideas. For example, a project timeline can be presented in a Gantt chart using Microsoft Excel or Smartsheet, while tools like Piktochart can transform data into engaging infographics. These aids make information more digestible and visually appealing, ensuring clear communication across diverse audiences.
- Digital Platforms with Accessible Features: Digital platforms like Zoom and Microsoft Teams enhance accessibility with features like live captions, spotlighting of sign language interpreters, real-time transcription, and screen reader support. Slack excels in asynchronous communication with customizable notifications and threads, while WhatsApp combines voice, video, and text messaging for flexibility. These tools empower neurodiverse individuals and those with aphasia to connect and collaborate on their own terms.
Supporting people with aphasia
Aphasia, a language disorder often resulting from strokes or brain injuries, affects over two million Americans. It can make speaking, reading, and writing difficult, leading to frustration and isolation. Many individuals with aphasia feel misunderstood or excluded, especially in fast-paced or text-heavy environments.
How language services provide support:
- Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Devices: Tools like touch-to-speak tablets or communication boards empower individuals to express their thoughts effectively.
- Simplified Visual Materials: Using images or symbols instead of text aids comprehension and engagement.
- Accessible Meeting Tools: Video calls with captioning and transcription options allow employees with aphasia to participate fully without pressure to speak fluently.
Building confidence and autonomy
Communication challenges can affect self-esteem and daily life for neurodivergent individuals and people with aphasia. Language services are a game-changer, providing tools that support independence and autonomy. For example, voice recognition apps and text-to-speech tools make navigating public spaces, completing forms, or sending messages easier. Implementing simplified workflows and visual resources empowers employees to handle tasks confidently, reducing stress and anxiety.
By enabling clear and effective communication, language services allow individuals to rely less on others for assistance, fostering a greater sense of self-sufficiency. This sense of autonomy fosters confidence and opens doors to personal and professional growth.
Further, employers who prioritize supporting diverse teams, including providing language accessibility tools, reap significant benefits from the fresh perspectives and creative solutions such teams bring. Research shows that companies with inclusive practices tend to outperform their peers, as diversity fosters a richer exchange of ideas, innovation, and healthier workplace competition.
The Harvard Business Review highlights that the challenges of working in diverse teams often lead to better outcomes because navigating differing perspectives pushes teams to optimize processes and achieve their best. Additionally, inclusive workplaces attract globally minded professionals, enhancing creativity and growth opportunities for everyone involved. Businesses investing in accessibility and diversity are not just leveling the playing field—they are gaining a competitive edge by accessing untapped potential and fostering an environment where innovation thrives.
Reducing cognitive overload
Cognitive overload — feeling overwhelmed by too much information —can make communication difficult for anyone, and it’s a common experience for neurodivergent individuals and those with aphasia. High-pressure environments like medical appointments, meetings, or customer interactions amplify this challenge.
Utilizing solutions like clear, jargon-free language ensures better understanding. Tools like flowcharts and step-by-step diagrams can reduce ambiguity, and real-time captions in meetings or presentations can help users process information at their own pace. These tools reduce stress and increase clarity in critical situations, enabling better decision-making and engagement.
Driving workplace inclusion
An inclusive workplace is not just ethical—it’s a strategic advantage. Research shows that businesses that invest in language and communication services foster environments where employees feel valued and empowered, directly enhancing satisfaction and productivity. For instance, Deloitte’s 2023 Global Human Capital Trends report highlights that inclusive workplaces are 8 times more likely to have better business outcomes and innovation rates than their peers.
Accessible communication tools, such as live transcription or multi-language support, also improve collaboration by allowing teams to leverage diverse perspectives, which McKinsey & Company links to a 35% increase in the likelihood of financial outperformance in companies with higher diversity. Beyond internal benefits, businesses prioritizing accessibility build stronger brand reputations and earn customer loyalty. A study by Accenture reveals that consumers are more likely to trust and support brands committed to inclusivity, with 62% of shoppers preferring businesses known for ethical practices. By committing to accessibility, companies position themselves as forward-thinking and inclusive, attracting top talent and loyal customers—a win-win for business growth and societal impact.
Steps your organization can take
Implementing language services doesn’t require an overhaul — just a commitment to inclusion. Here’s how to get started:
- Simplify Communication: Use plain language in emails, instructions, and presentations to ensure accessibility.
- Leverage Technology: Integrate tools like real-time transcription, speech-to-text apps, and AAC devices into workflows.
- Provide Staff Training: Equip employees with the skills to communicate effectively with diverse audiences, including neurodivergent individuals and those with aphasia.
- Offer Content in Multiple Formats: Provide written, visual, and audio formats to match different communication needs.
Ready to create a more inclusive future?
Language services do more than enhance communication—they unlock your business’s potential to create a meaningful impact. When you invest in these tools, you transform your workplace into a hub where innovation flourishes, and every employee contributes their voice to drive success.
Take action today. Learn how Sorenson can support your business in driving inclusion and accessibility by visiting us at
Sources:
Technology and Aphasia: Talk tools
Invest in Assistive Technology
It’s time to prioritize assistive technology for neurodiversity
How to Support Neurodiversity in the Workplace
Diversity wins: How inclusion matters
Diverse Teams Feel Less Comfortable — and That’s Why They Perform Better
Majority of Consumers Buying From Companies That Take A Stand on Issues They Care About and Ditching Those That Don’t, Accenture Study Finds
