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Apply to UMAP
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Clients and caregivers typically have many questions when deciding if UMAP is the right program for them. We hope the following answers to frequently asked questions will be helpful as you consider enrolling in our program. Please contact us if you have further questions regarding these or any other issues related to UMAP. - What are the criteria for enrolling in the program?
Clients must have aphasia and/or apraxia. We accept clients of all communication abilities, from those with severe difficulties speaking and understanding, to those who have only minimal speech and language impairments. Other criteria to enroll in the program are that the client is medically stable and as physically independent as possible, has the endurance to participate in 30 hours of therapy per week, and can financially cover the program costs.
- What improvements can we expect after a monthly session?
Improvements in speech and language skills vary from client to client and depend upon many factors. In our most recent outcomes study, 96% of clients made measurable improvements in the area of verbal expression. Those who didn’t show progress in this area made gains in other aspects of communication such as auditory or reading comprehension, or written expression.
- What is a typical day like?
UMAP hours are from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Clients typically begin their therapy day at 8 a.m., and have 5-6 scheduled therapy sessions until 5 p.m. Flexible scheduling is available for those who prefer earlier or later sessions. A one-hour lunch is scheduled daily at noon.
- How many clients are enrolled in a session?
An average session will have 5 full-time UMAP clients, and a few local individuals who attend the program on a part-time basis. The limited number of clients enrolled at one time allows for the development of highly individualized therapy programs for each of our clients, and for the clients and caregivers to form meaningful relationships with others who live with aphasia.
- Do I have to attend the program with my loved one?
Most clients do have a caregiver present for some or the entire monthly session, but it is not required. Caregivers are encouraged to observe and participate in therapy sessions. It is beneficial for caregivers to attend some sessions in order to become familiar with the communication tools and strategies being used with the loved with aphasia. However, it is important for clients to attend some sessions alone to increase their independence and confidence. Caregivers are scheduled to attend the weekly caregiver support group and educational seminars offered at UMAP.
- What lodging is available while attending UMAP?
We partner with a small number of hotels offering reduced rates to our clients. These hotels also offer a complimentary shuttle service that takes them to and from UMAP each day.
- What if my loved one cannot finish the program, or must miss sessions due to illness or outside appointments?
We make every effort to reschedule all therapy sessions that must be canceled due to illness or appointments.
- What happens when I finish UMAP?
Most clients continue speech-language therapy when they return home. Some clients return to the UMAP for an additional session to further build upon their communication skills. Your UMAP clinician will make specific recommendations for continued therapy upon the completion of UMAP.
- Do clients need an evaluation before enrolling in UMAP?
Some clients come for an evaluation prior to enrolling in the program but it is not a requirement. An evaluation allows us to determine the type of aphasia the client exhibits, develop a communication profile, and make specific therapy recommendations. This allows the client to begin therapy almost immediately when entering the UMAP, rather than spend much of the first day in assessment. Coming to the Center for an evaluation also allows clients to tour our facility and meet other clients and caregivers, who can offer their perspectives on the program.
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