What is the most likely diagnosis for an 88-year-old patient with right-sided weakness and a history of aphasia?

In this scenario, the presentation of right-sided weakness alongside a history of aphasia strongly suggests a left-sided stroke. This is because motor control for the right side of the body is governed by the left side of the brain, which is also responsible for language function in the majority of people. The occurrence of aphasia indicates that the left hemisphere is likely affected since this area is typically associated with speech and language processing.

A left-sided stroke leads to deficits on the opposite side (right side), which aligns with the observed weakness. Therefore, the combination of right-sided weakness and aphasia points to the likelihood of a left-sided cerebral event impacting both motor control and language capabilities. The age of the patient also supports the risk factors, as strokes are more common in older adults.