This book provides a life-span perspective on organic and neurogenic disorders of communication. The book presents current theories in the context of clinical practice and combines a medical approach to communication disorders with emphasis on educational, social and cultural factors. The book includes traditional areas of practice (e.g. aphasia, voice disorders, etc.) as well as new or expanded areas (e.g. dysphagia, psychiatric disorders, dementias). Each chapter is based on current research and theory, which provides a solid and comprehensive framework for understanding these communication problems. In addition, essential information in the areas of instrumentation, analytic techniques, and medio-surgical advances is highlighted. The book provides intelligent and in-depth coverage of medically-related communication disorders and their consequences, without sacrificing readability. For professionals working in the field of speech-language pathology.