What is the impact of Parkinson’s on communication?
Parkinson’s UK says not everybody with Parkinson’s will have the same symptoms. However, the condition can cause communication problems such as slurred speech, a monotonous tone, a hoarse or unsteady voice, small, spidery handwriting, reduced facial expressions and reduced body language, including hand gestures
What can help?
Speech and language therapy can help with all aspects of communication, including facial expressions, speech and body language.
A speech and language therapist can offer a full assessment of speech and can offer individual or group therapy. The therapist can suggest strategies that may help communication in certain situations.
People may also find it easier to use other forms of communication, such as email or the internet.
Occupational therapy can help with problems with writing. An occupational therapist can also advise on practical ways to make communication easier, such as customising your computer.
Physiotherapy may help improve body language.
Parkinson’s Disease can also specifically affect the voice.
A person with Parkinson’s Disease typically displays the following: a weak, breathy voice, raised pitch, reduced maximum phonation time, (the amount of time they can continue to hold a note on the same breath) rough vocal note, reduced loudness, monopitch and delayed voice onset.
Change in phonation is usually the first speech feature to occur in Parkinson’s disease.
Speech characteristics associated with Parkinson’s Disease.
People with Parkinson’s disease may display fast rushes of speech so that their message becomes unintelligible.
They may also experience problems with cognitive changes (bradyphrenia) depression and subtle language changes.
Their voice may become much quieter making it difficult for the listener to understand.
Commonly people have difficulty with articulation also making it difficult for the listener.
Assessment
An interview with both the client and the spouse is critical in understanding the severity of the problem – Parkinson’s clients are commonly unaware of the extent of their difficulties (Yorkston et al, 1995).
References:
Yorkston et al, 1995. Management of Speech and Swallowing in Degenerative Diseases. Texas: Pro-ed.
Mathieson, L. (2001) The Voice and its Disorders. London: Whurr Publishers.
ITS can offer more information about voice therapy for Parkinson’s disease.
Written by Rachel Harrison, Speech and Language Therapist, on behalf of Integrated Treatment Services.
April 2014
Image rights – centraldallas.myhomecareblog.
