Maintaining Your Voice: Communication Tips for Individuals with Parkinson’s Disease
by Bonnie Slavych, Speech-Language Pathologist
In our previous post, we discussed how Parkinson’s disease (PD) can affect your speech and why it's important to be proactive in managing these changes. Now, let's talk about some specific voice maintenance techniques that can help you improve and maintain effective communication, helping you to stay connected and active in your daily life.
The Importance of Voice Exercises
Engaging in regular voice exercises, like those taught in the LSVT LOUD and SPEAK OUT! programs, is vital for maintaining vocal quality and volume. These exercises focus on improving your vocal loudness and clarity by strengthening the muscles used in speech. Consistent practice is essential for these techniques to be effective, so it's important that you incorporate them into your daily routine.
Breath Support and Control
Breath control plays a significant role in your ability to speak loudly and clearly. Deep breathing exercises can improve your breath support and help you sustain your voice during conversations. By practicing these exercises daily, you'll be better able to manage the breathlessness that can sometimes accompany PD.
Posture and Relaxation
Good posture and relaxation can have a significant impact on your voice production. Sitting upright and keeping your neck and shoulder muscles relaxed can reduce stiffness and help improve your speech clarity. Stretching exercises or gentle yoga can aid in maintaining flexibility and reduce muscle tension.
Speaking Strategies
Using certain speaking strategies can make a noticeable difference in how effectively you communicate. Try to pause between phrases, speak more slowly, and exaggerate your articulation. These techniques will help make your speech clearer and easier for others to understand. If you are a caregiver, provide positive reinforcement and encourage the person with PD to use these strategies in everyday conversations.
Creating an Encouraging Environment
If you are a caregiver or friend, please understand that it is important to not speak over or finish the sentences of the person with PD, even if their speech is slower. Practice active listening, give them time to respond, and show patience. This support will help the person with PD feel more comfortable expressing themselves by reducing the pressure of communication. If you have PD, it is important that you be proactive and let others know of changes that you expect with your speech and communication. Ask others to now not speak over you or finish your sentences. This is so important for you when it comes to slowing the progression of communication changes.
Recognizing Changes
If you are a caregiver, it's important to recognize common changes in speech related to PD, such as reduced volume, monotone speech, or slurred articulation. By understanding these changes, you can better support and adapt to the evolving needs of the person with PD.
Incorporating Communication into Daily Life
Staying socially active is essential for practicing your communication skills. Engage in regular conversations with loved ones, participate in social activities, and keep a positive attitude. Social interaction will not only help you maintain your speech abilities but also build your confidence.
Using Technology
If needed, don't hesitate to use technology to support your communication. Voice amplifiers or other assistive devices can help you make yourself heard, reducing frustration for both you and your conversation partners.
Conclusion
Voice maintenance techniques are crucial for enhancing and maintaining your ability to communicate effectively with PD. Regular voice exercises, breath control, speaking strategies, and a supportive environment all play a vital role in keeping you connected with your loved ones and your community. If you notice changes in your speech, consult a healthcare professional who can guide you to a speech-language pathologist for support.
In our next post, we'll begin taking a closer look at these strategies, providing specific actions you can take to maintain your communication abilities and improve your quality of life (or maintain it).
Upcoming Series
In the next couple of weeks, I will introduce a blog series on changes in swallowing and what you can do to maintain or strengthen your ability to eat safely. Stay tuned!