Assessment of language

The use of language involves the capacity to understand and express spoken, written or other forms of language. This capacity is developed in the early ages of development. Problems with using language include, among other factors, the lack of development of oral language due to hearing loss, for example, but also different types of impairments due to brain damage (e.g. aphasia). Assessment of language (including initial screening to determine the need for comprehensive assessment) uses observation, interviewing, standardized self-reported questionnaires or standardized tests to determine the presence and/or severity of problems with using language, ascertain their impact on functioning, and inform care planning, including the need for referral or follow-up.