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Independent Speech, Language and Communication Assessment, Diagnosis and Support
Adult DLD Assessment
Adult DLD Assessment
What is Developmental Language Disorder or DLD?
What is Developmental Language Disorder or DLD?
Developmental Language Disorder or DLD is one of the most common, (1 in 14 people) yet least known neurodevelopmental conditions and is described as a hidden disability. Awareness is increasing about this neurodevelopmental condition, and assessments are on the increase, especially for those who may also have ADHD.
DLD or Language Disorder often co-occurs with other neurodevelopmental conditions such as ADHD, dyslexia and autism. The impact of undiagnosed language difficulties can significantly affect educational, social, mental health/wellbeing and employment.
DLD is a brain difference that makes talking and listening difficult. It is 50 times more prevalent than hearing impairment and five times more prevalent than autism. (McGregor, 2020)
Adults with language difficulties can experience some or all of the below:
Adults with language difficulties can experience some or all of the below:
Find it difficult to understand language and process information
Find it hard to follow instructions
Find it difficult to answer questions
Struggle to put words and thoughts together in a way that is easily understood by others
Find it difficult to follow and join in a conversation
The Adult DLD service provides assessment and diagnosis for adults with suspected Developmental Language Disorder.
Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) is a common, lifelong neurodevelopmental condition that affects how we learn and use language. A person with DLD may have difficulties with some or all of the following:
Learning and remembering words (vocabulary/word-finding difficulties)
Using correct grammar (e.g. tenses) and getting words in the right order in sentences
Using language appropriately for different situations
Understanding complex spoken or written information
Explaining complicated events or procedures
Assessment and diagnosis can help a person understand their strengths and what they find difficult. It can support them ask for changes they need in work and education.
Assessment process:
Assessment process:
You will be invited to clinic for an in-person appointment or alternatively, online is available if required.
This is likely to last between 1-2 hours. Before the appointment, we may ask you to complete some questionnaires.
During the session, the SLT will talk to you about the difficulties you have had and will carry out some language assessments with you.
Following the session, they will write a report which explains your strengths, needs and any adjustments (changes) that might be helpful. If we think DLD fits your difficulties, this report will state the diagnosis of DLD and will explain what this is.
If you are seeking assessment for other neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism or ADHD Chantelle is also co-owner of a neurodevelopmental assessment clinic, please get in touch for more details.
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