Don't Wait to Speak Up: Proactive Speech Therapy for Parkinson's Disease
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. While there is no cure for PD, there are steps you can take to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life; research supports the need for early intervention. Proactive PD care may help slow the disease progression and maintain functions over time.
Early Intervention is Key
Because of the progressive nature of Parkinson’s, waiting for a significant decline in speech or swallowing abilities is not the best course of action. Studies have shown that subtle changes in speech and swallow function can begin years before they become noticeable. By initiating speech therapy early, you can learn techniques to maintain these vital skills and minimize the impact of PD on your daily life.
How Speech Therapy Can Help
Speech therapy for PD addresses a range of challenges, including:
Cognitive decline: Speech therapists can help with memory, attention, and problem-solving difficulties that can accompany PD. Therapy should be tailored to your ability level.
Language issues: Techniques can address trouble with language processing, and expressive language. Therapy may target word finding.
Speech clarity and loudness: Programs to improve articulation, volume, overall speech intelligibility, fluency and rate of speech. Therapies such as LSVT and SPEAK OUT!
Swallowing safety: Speech therapists can assess swallowing function and teach strategies to minimize the risk of aspiration pneumonia. Therapy may benefit patients with dysphagia and may also be beneficial with drooling.
Respiratory maintenance: Protocols to support maintenance of respiratory functions which influence breathing, swallowing and speech. Therapy can target improved coordination and breath control.
Above and beyond: Improved quality of life, increased independence, better communication skills and reduced risk of complications. Communication is an avenue to connection and its benefits far surpass the therapy room.
Beyond Therapy: Daily Strategies for Maintaining Communication
In addition to formal therapy sessions, incorporate these daily habits into your routine:
Engage your brain: Play cognitive games, do puzzles, and actively listen to news stories or podcasts to keep your mind sharp.
Practice speaking with volition: Speak clearly and deliberately, as if you are addressing a room full of people.
Focus on good posture and breathing: These are essential for both clear speech and swallowing.
Advocate for your needs: Communicate openly with your loved ones about any communication difficulties you experience.
Exercise: Move your body with purpose and engage in direct Physical, Occupational and Speech therapy.
Nourish and hydrate: Your brain and body need good nutrition and hydration to function optimally.
Center sleep hygiene: Sleep disruptions can be challenging but there are strategies to try and techniques that can help. Speak to your doctor about your sleep and try to encourage healthy sleep routines.
The Importance of Communication and Connection
Strong communication is fundamental to maintaining an enriching and fulfilling life. Social connections are essential for well-being, and PD can make it difficult to stay connected with loved ones. Speech therapy can empower you to maintain clear communication and actively participate in social interactions.
Getting Help
If you have been diagnosed with PD, or if you are experiencing any changes in your speech or swallowing, talk to your doctor about a referral to a speech-language pathologist (SLP) specializing in neurological conditions. Remember you don't have to wait until you experience significant difficulties to seek speech therapy. A proactive approach can significantly improve your quality of life with Parkinson's disease.
Additional Resources
National Parkinson Foundation: National Parkinson Foundation
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association: American Speech-Language-Hearing Association