Speech pathologist work diligently to return all aspects of the patient’s overall communication and swallowing function. For adults who suffer from some type of cognitive impairment, speech pathologists work with the patient and their family to target trouble areas which hinder them from living their normal, daily life. This could include short term/long term memory, speech production, auditory comprehension, written language or vocal dysfunctions. Swallowing problems, or dysphagia, are common with these types of injuries. Speech pathologists exercise the muscles involved in the swallowing process to decrease the risk for aspiration and increase the overall swallow function. For adults and children alike, communication is imperative, and the speech pathologists hold the key to a patient’s success.