Abby Barnes, M.S., CCC-SLP
Trouble speaking clearly can be a major symptom of Parkinson’s disease. In fact, speech impairments may be one of the first signs of Parkinson’s to appear. These impairments might include slurred speech or trouble with pronunciation.
We communicate with others all the time–with our family, with our coworkers, and out in the community. So it’s natural that speech problems can cause frustration. But the good news is that speech therapy is an effective treatment for people with Parkinson’s disease.
Let’s look at how Parkinson’s can affect speech and how speech therapy helps strengthen the ability to communicate.
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Get startedHow does Parkinson’s affect speech?
Parkinson’s disease can affect a person’s speech. Many people with Parkinson’s may have problems with their speech at some point.
Keep in mind that speech is produced using breath support, voice, and articulation. Articulation refers to the overall clarity of speech. It’s how the jaw, mouth, teeth, lips, and tongue move in order to produce clear words while speaking. In this article, we’re focusing specifically on speech articulation changes due to Parkinson’s. Check out this article to learn more about voice changes that can accompany Parkinson’s.
Symptoms of speech problems with Parkinson’s disease may include slurring, mumbling words, or difficulty saying certain sounds. Overall, speech may sound unclear. These speech impairments are a result of the declining ability to control the muscles needed for speech, voice, and swallowing.
How does speech therapy improve clarity of speech in Parkinson’s?
Speech therapists are licensed healthcare professionals trained in treating speech and communication difficulties. Your speech therapist will perform an evaluation to assess your communication skills. In addition to evaluating the clarity of your speech, they may also assess voice, swallowing function, and any cognitive-communication challenges.
If difficulty with speech articulation is identified, voice issues likely may be present as well. This is because the muscles needed for clear speech are also needed for strong breath and voice support. Some of the treatment approaches used in voice therapy also focus on speech clarity.
Your speech therapist will select the goals and treatments that are right for you. Speech therapy for Parkinson’s should be tailored to the individual person.
Treatment for speech and voice problems in Parkinson’s
SPEAK OUT! is an evidenced-based approach developed by the Parkinson Voice Project. It aims to help people learn to “speak with intent.” It’s believed that speaking with purpose will naturally help make a person's voice louder and clearer.
Another evidenced-based speech and voice treatment for Parkinson’s is Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT) LOUD. The goal of LSVT LOUD is to train people with Parkinson’s to speak louder, at a normal intensity, while keeping a good voice quality. It is believed that speaking with a louder voice will help with speech clarity.
Speech therapists undergo specific training to become certified in SPEAK OUT! and LSVT LOUD.
There are other therapeutic approaches for Parkinson’s disease that do not solely rely on these two programs. Your speech therapist can recommend articulation exercises specific to your needs. For example, they may teach you to “over articulate” your words. This involves using bigger mouth movements to speak, which can lead to clearer pronunciation.
Other ways to strengthen communication with Parkinson’s
Your speech therapist can also help you make simple changes in how you talk with others, or in your environment, to help you be more easily understood. These are called compensatory strategies. They may include the following:
Making sure you’re looking at your conversation partner and they’re looking at you. This can greatly impact how well others understand you.
Speaking in shorter, more direct phrases and sentences, rather than longer sentences.
Turning off competing distractions in your environment, like a loud TV or radio.
Using other means of communication when needed, such as writing or typing messages or using gestures like pointing.
Speech therapy for Parkinson’s can benefit your loved ones and caregivers, too. During sessions, they can learn how to better support you. For example, your speech therapist may suggest that your communication partners restate what they heard in order to clarify or confirm your message. They should also ask questions as needed and not pretend that they understood what was said.
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Get startedHow do you know it’s time to see a speech therapist for Parkinson’s disease?
If you’re noticing any changes in your speech or voice–even minor ones–it’s time to talk with a speech therapist. Speech therapists are trained to detect speech symptoms that may not be so obvious to you. It’s best to get a professional opinion sooner rather than later.
In addition, starting speech therapy early on may help you prevent further decline in your speech skills. There are so many simple speech exercises and lifestyle changes that can make a huge difference in your speech–and your overall quality of life. You have everything to gain with speech therapy, and nothing to lose!
How long will I have speech therapy for Parkinson’s?
Every person with Parkinson’s will spend a different amount of time in speech therapy, as each person’s needs are different. Some people may need a few check-in sessions here and there. Others may need more intensive weekly sessions for several months.
Your speech therapist will decide the frequency for your sessions and can estimate how long you’ll be in therapy. Practicing your speech exercises at home, between sessions, will help you progress as quickly as possible. The more you follow your speech therapist’s recommendations, the faster you can see results!
How to find a speech therapist for Parkinson’s
Expressable is a national online speech therapy practice providing. We employ more than 150 licensed speech therapists, many with experience treating speech problems related to Parkinson’s. Our clients appreciate the quality and personalization of the care they receive, as well as the convenience of receiving speech therapy at home, at a time that works with their schedule.
To get started, schedule a brief consultation call with an Expressable specialist. We’re here to answer your questions and help you decide on next steps.
How does online speech therapy for Parkinson’s work?
In online speech therapy, you meet face-to-face with your speech therapist using a video conferencing platform like Zoom on your computer or tablet. You can see your therapist, they can see you, and they will teach you speech exercises as you practice together.
Family members and caregivers are welcome to attend sessions with you. This allows everyone to get involved and understand how to support your communication in daily life. Your caregivers will be better equipped to help you practice between sessions, as well. And because therapy is online, they can attend from wherever they are.
Reach out to Expressable today
If you’re noticing any changes in your speech, contact Expressable to set up a free consultation call. With the right treatment and support, you can more easily connect and communicate with others.
