Navigating Speech and Swallowing Challenges in Parkinson’s Disease: Guidance From A Speech-Language Pathologist
Living with Parkinson's disease (PD) presents a unique set of challenges, particularly when it comes to communication and swallowing. As a speech-language pathologist (SLPs) working exclusively in adult care, I see a lot of variation in the types of people who get PD and the symptoms that clients present with. My role is to offer individualized treatment from a prevention, rehabilitation and compensatory perspective and to offer guidance and support for individuals with PD and their caregivers.
Speech Issues in Parkinson’s Disease
Clear speech requires coordinated movements of the muscles involved in respiration, phonation, articulation, and resonance. However, PD can disrupt these systems, leading to soft, unclear speech that is difficult for others to understand. Moreover, facial masking and other motor symptoms may impede the conveyance of emotions, potentially affecting social interactions and emotional expression.
Individuals with PD may experience fluctuations in their speech patterns, ranging from slow, quiet speech to rapid, mumbling or monotone speech. These changes often worsen with fatigue and may go unnoticed by the affected individual.
Swallowing Challenges and Aspiration Risk
Swallowing difficulties, known as dysphagia, frequently accompany speech issues in PD. Dysphagia can manifest as prolonged meal times, coughing during meals, or a sensation of food getting stuck in the throat. Left untreated, dysphagia can lead to malnutrition, dehydration, and aspiration pneumonia—a serious complication and a leading cause of death in PD.
Recognizing Speech and Swallowing Problems
If you or your loved one with PD experience any of the following symptoms, it may be indicative of speech or swallowing issues:
Difficulty being heard or understood
Limited participation in conversations due to speech concerns
Struggling to swallow food or liquids, resulting in coughing or choking
Drooling or food collecting around the gum line
Unintentional weight loss or avoiding certain foods due to swallowing difficulties
Addressing Speech and Swallowing Challenges
Early intervention by an SLP is crucial in managing speech and swallowing difficulties in PD. SLPs are trained professionals who specialize in evaluating and treating communication and swallowing disorders. Through personalized therapy sessions, SLPs can help individuals with PD:
Improve vocal clarity and volume
Enhance swallowing function and safety
Develop strategies to compensate for speech and swallowing impairments
Incorporate evidence-based programs like Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT) and the Parkinson Voice Project SPEAK OUT! for comprehensive care
Teletherapy: A Convenient Option for Rehabilitation
In today's digital age, teletherapy offers a convenient and accessible alternative to traditional in-person therapy sessions. Research has shown that teletherapy can be as effective as in-person therapy for individuals with PD, providing access to specialized care from the comfort of home. With advances in technology, teletherapy enables SLPs to conduct assessments, deliver interventions, and monitor progress remotely, ensuring continuity of care and promoting engagement in therapy.
Seeking Help and Support
Remember, effective communication and safe swallowing are essential components of maintaining quality of life for individuals with PD. By partnering with an SLP and embracing evidence-based therapies, individuals with PD can enhance their communication skills, regain confidence in social interactions, and enjoy meals with greater ease and comfort.
To learn more about speech therapy services for Parkinson's disease or to find out more about virtual SLP services in BC (including LSVT and SPEAK OUT!) feel free to contact me or reach out for an initial consultation.
References
