Speech/language pathologists, also called speech therapists, can make communication easier for those with Parkinson's. They can also help with swallowing. Many can also help with compensatory strategies for cognitive problems.
Finding A Speech Therapist in Northern California
If you live in Northern California, contact the APDA Information & Referral Center at Stanford for a referral to a speech/language pathologist near you. Many of these speech therapists have experience treating those with Parkinson's.
Resources | At-Home Exercises | PD Virtual Singing Groups
Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT)
LSVT-LOUD is an intensive behavioral treatment program that requires sixteen therapy sessions in one month with a trained speech therapist. The primary goal is to help improve vocal loudness. As a result of therapy, improvements in speech clarity and breathing are often seen. DVDs are also sold for at-home treatment.
Parkinson Voice Project
This nonprofit offers SPEAK OUT!® and LOUD Crowd® therapy programs. Treatment begins with a speech evaluation, followed by Parkinson's information sessions and SPEAK OUT!® training with six weeks of follow up. Participants graduate to the LOUD Crowd® Facebook Live speech practice sessions for daily home practice, speech and singing groups, or SPEAK OUT!® refresher courses.
Speech and language therapy and Parkinson's
Published by Parkinson's UK, October 2013
Good overview of when someone should see a speech therapist and how speech therapists can help with communication.
LSVT BIG Homework Helper
Publisher: LSVT Global, Inc.
Cost: $28 for DVD or download; $15/year streaming
Volume 1 contains standard exercises in standing; volume 2 contains exercises adapted to seated and supine positions, plus a chapter for caregivers. Available in English, German and Japanese.
Speaking Effectively, A Strategic Guide For Speaking and Swallowing
Published by the American Parkinson Disease Association, 2010
Free booklet contains exercises for speech and voice.
Voice Aerobics
Exercise program focusing on breath support, posture, and vocal function exercises for improved vocal performance. DVD is sold.
Tremolos
A choral group of people with PD, their caregivers and loved ones. Rehearsals have body movement connected to sustained sound-making, choral rhythmic chanting, community singing, rhythmic songs, choralography (moving to music) using call and echo, call and response, lip and tongue trills, staccato voiced consonants, big voice projection, and “bouncing” the diaphragm to coordinate the mind and body together and ameliorate PD symptoms. Donation-based class.
- Thursdays, 1-2:30pm PT
Email: Lauren Carley lacarley@gmail.com to join.
Tremolos
Santa Cruz (California) Tremolos Singing Group provides a unique, ongoing opportunity for people with PD and their caregivers to participate in a therapeutic and joyful singing experience. The beneficial side effects include easier breathing, improved posture and voice quality, and increased feelings of positive social engagement. No prior singing experience expected. Donation-based program.
- 2nd & 4th Thursdays, 1-2:15pm PT
Contact: Julie or Barry at 831-688-0888 or via email at ellomar@sbcglobal.net.
Last updated October 2022 by Stanford Parkinson's Community Outreach.
