Speech Therapy for Parkinson’s Disease: Understanding Voice Changes and How Treatment Can Help

Alison McDonald
11 minutes ago
2 min read

An older gentleman in a blue shirt is having a speech therapy consultation at a desk with a speech pathologist.

If you've noticed changes in your voice, such as becoming quieter, strained, or unclear, you're not alone. These voice changes are common among individuals living with Parkinson's disease and various neurodegenerative conditions. In fact, studies show that approximately 90% of people with Parkinson’s experience significant speech and voice difficulties at some point during the progression of the disease. Fortunately, specialised speech therapy for Parkinson’s disease, such as LSVT LOUD, has proven highly effective in addressing these challenges

Why Do Voice Changes Occur?

Neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s can affect the muscles involved in speech production, resulting in symptoms such as:

Reduced Vocal Loudness: Often referred to as hypophonia, your voice may become noticeably softer, making it difficult for others to hear you clearly.
Hoarse or Breathy Voice: Vocal cords might not close completely, leading to a weaker, breathier, or more strained voice.
Slurred or Mumbled Speech: Articulating clearly can become challenging, causing your words to blend or become unclear.
Monotone Speech: Loss of vocal modulation, making it difficult to express emotions or maintain listener engagement.

These voice difficulties not only impact your communication but can also lead to social isolation, decreased self-confidence, and reduced overall quality of life.

Info graphic outlining the speech and voice components affected by Parkinson's disease to explain how the voice and communication abilities of patients with Parkinson's disease and other neurodegenerative conditions areas affected by neurological decline

Speech Therapy for Parkinson’s Disease: Introducing Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT LOUD)

A highly regarded therapy known as Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT LOUD) has been specifically developed and clinically validated to help individuals with Parkinson’s disease and related neurodegenerative disorders regain vocal strength and clarity. Research consistently demonstrates that LSVT significantly improves speech volume, clarity, and overall communication effectiveness.

How Does LSVT LOUD Work?

LSVT LOUD is an intensive therapy that employs a structured set of exercises tailored specifically to your individual needs. Key components include:

Vocal Loudness Training: Systematic exercises to increase vocal strength and endurance.
Improving Vocal Quality: Techniques designed to improve clarity, reduce breathiness, and enhance vocal control.
Speech Articulation Exercises: Targeted practice to improve precision and clarity in speech.
Building Confidence: Regular practice helps rebuild the confidence needed for social engagement and effective communication.

Benefits of Speech Therapy for Neurodegenerative Conditions

At Newcastle Speech Pathology, we have witnessed firsthand how targeted speech therapy transforms our clients' lives. Benefits include:

Clearer, stronger speech, leading to better daily communication.
Improved confidence in social and professional interactions.
Enhanced ability to actively participate in family, social, and community activities.
Substantial improvement in overall emotional well-being and quality of life.

Take the First Step Towards Clearer Communication

Understanding and addressing voice difficulties early can dramatically improve your quality of life. If you're experiencing voice challenges related to Parkinson's or another neurodegenerative condition, professional help is available.

Reach out to Newcastle Speech Pathology to discover how speech therapy and LSVT LOUD can positively impact your communication and your life.