Recently someone asked for information regarding speech therapy for
individuals with PD. Sorry for the delay in responding but I'd like
to answer some of the questions and hopefully provide some useful
suggestions.
The "speech" disorders associated with PD are variable. The most
common complaints are:
reduced loudness
monotone
speaking rate that is too fast or too slow
slurred or mumbled speech
All of these components can be addressed in speech therapy. However,
whether therapy will be effective or not is dependent on many
variables including
the type(s) of problems an individual has
the relative contribution of each symptom
the severity of the symptoms
the individual's motivation
While I am an experienced Speech-Language Pathologist with years of
clinical research experience I am relatively new to the field of
communication disorders associated with PD.I have been shocked by the
lack of information and most of all the lack of referrals for speech
language therapy for patients with PD
IF YOUR COMMUNICATION IS BEING AFFECTED BY PD, A REFERRAL FOR A
SPEECH-LANGUAGE EVALUATION IS APPROPRIATE.
What type of therap
It is VERY important however that you seek out a speech pathologist
who is experienced with PD.
RECENTLY A PROGRAM HAS BEEN DEVELOPED WHICH HAS BEEN SHOWN TO BE
EXTREMELY EFFECTIVE IN TREATING MANY OF THE SPEECH PROBLEMS ASSOCIATED
WITH PD, ESPECIALLY THE LOW VOLUME VOICE. IT IS CALLED THE "LEE
SILVERMAN VOICE TREATMENT" (LSVT)
The course of therapy is intensive (6 weeks, 4xs a week) But it has
significant benefits. You can call your local hospital or rehab center
or a local University if they have a training program in Speech
Pathology. Be sure to ask for a speech pathologist who has experience
with PD or one who is trained in LSVT. If you need further info on
how to locate a Speech Language Pathologist in your area I will be
happy to try to help.
Patients consistently tell me that the loss of the ability to
communicate effectively is one of the most painful, isolating
experiences associated with PD. It can be helped with proper
education, therapy and strategies. The type of therapy appropriate for
you will depend on the type and severity of the disorder but almost
always, some form of improvement in communication can be obtained. If
this is a problem for you or someone you care for, be assertive with
your MDs. They are not necessarily familiar with the methods
available for assisting you.
Linda L. D'Antonio, Ph.D.
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Loma Linda University
