Parkinson’s Disease. Approximately 70% of people with Parkinson’s Disease (PD) develop difficulty with speech or voice.
The first sign of PD is often a change in vocal quality such as breathiness or hoarseness. Unfortunately some people with PD wait until their speech is difficult to understand before seeking speech therapy, however early intervention is highly recommended. In the early stages of PD it is easier to learn and practise the exercises that can reduce some of the potential problems with low volume or lack of speech clarity. It is often ‘communication partners’ who notice the changes in speech clarity (mumbling) or volume and find themselves requesting repeats. The person with Parkinsons’ Disease may be unaware that their speech is not intelligible to others and may need ‘recalibration’ regarding the level of intentionality and effort required to produce adequate volume and clear speech.
Treatment for PD includes Speak out loud and LSVT which can be seen as ‘weightlifting’ for the voice. Carmel’s specialised experience treating voice gives her the skills to prepare you to conduct these programs, safely without strain. We use vocal function exercises and other techniques to reduce tension that may have developed to compensate for the effects of Parkinsons Disease on breathing and voice production. Carmel also teaches people with PD to ‘Yell Well’ using ‘Voice-craft’ techniques including ‘twang ‘for increased loudness.
Carmel has been helping people with PD for 35 years. She provided speech pathology input in specialist PD clinics at Ballina and War Memorial Hospitals. She enjoys collaborating with other practitioners on the PD team (e.g. O.T.s, physios), and training and working closely with communication partners/ support workers.
Eighty percent of people with PD also develop some degree of difficulty swallowing. Vocal and respiratory loading training, as well as specific tongue and swallowing exercises can be used to improve swallow function.
Carmel provides therapy support through NDIS for early onset PD for those under 65.
Rebates are available through Health Funds or CDM Care Plan) if self funded.
If over 65 you may be eligible for speech pathology through an Aged Care Package.