Using Speaking Strategies for Effective Communication in Parkinson’s Disease
By Bonnie Slavych, Speech-Language Pathologist
Navigating speech changes can be one of the more challenging aspects of living with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Effective communication is not only about speaking; it’s also about being heard and understood. For individuals with PD and their caregivers, understanding and implementing specific speaking strategies can greatly enhance daily interactions.
Understanding Speech Changes in PD
For many with PD, changes in speech, such as speaking softly, mumbling or slurring, can often go unnoticed by the speaker themselves. This can lead to misunderstandings, where you might believe others are having hearing difficulties. It's common to experience frustration when you’re continually asked to repeat yourself or speak louder. Recognizing these changes is the first step towards addressing them effectively.
Effective Speaking Strategies
Pause Between Phrases: Pausing allows you to gather your thoughts and gives your listener time to process what has been said. This can also help you manage your breath and speak more clearly.
Example: When discussing plans, instead of rushing through, you could say, "Tomorrow... (pause) we might go to the park... (pause) if the weather is nice."
Speak More Slowly & Exaggerate Articulation: Slowing down your speech rate and emphasizing each word can enhance clarity and prevent your words from blending together. This approach makes it easier for listeners to understand you, especially during longer sentences where you might typically rush.
Example: When saying, "We need to go to the store," focus on clearly pronouncing each word: "We... need... to... go... to... the... store." Make a conscious effort to articulate the start and end of each word, taking a slight pause between them. This not only slows down your speech but also helps in emphasizing key sounds.
Use Short, Simple Sentences: Complex sentences can be harder to articulate and for others to follow. Keeping your sentences short and straightforward can improve communication efficiency.
Example: Instead of saying, "I was thinking that maybe we could possibly go out for a short walk after lunch," simplify it to "Let's walk after lunch."
Tips for Caregivers
If you are caring for someone with PD, your support is crucial in helping them maintain and improve their communication skills:
Encourage Independence: Resist the urge to speak for them, even if it seems like you’re helping. Allowing them to express themselves can prevent feelings of isolation and help maintain their communication skills.
Give Positive Reinforcement: Encourage and praise efforts to use these speaking strategies. Positive feedback can boost confidence and motivate continued practice.
Example: After a conversation, you might say, "I really understood everything you said clearly when you slowed down.
Offer Emotional Support and Patience: Recognize the emotional strain that communication difficulties can cause. Maintaining a patient, supportive attitude is important. Your emotional support can make a significant difference in their willingness to engage in conversation and practice new speech techniques.
Practice Together: Engage in exercises that promote clear speaking, such as reading aloud together or having structured conversations where you both practice these strategies.
Example: Take turns reading a book or article aloud, focusing on articulation and pacing.
The Role of Speech-Language Pathologists
Consulting with a speech-language pathologist (SLP) who specializes in PD is invaluable. An SLP can provide personalized strategies and exercises tailored to your specific needs. They can help you recognize and adapt to your changing speech abilities and ensure that caregivers are effectively supporting your communication efforts.
Enhancing Support Through Community
Joining local or online support groups can also be beneficial. These communities offer a platform to share experiences, tips, and encouragement with others facing similar challenges, providing both practical support and a sense of belonging.
Conclusion
For both individuals with PD and their caregivers, understanding and using effective speaking strategies can make a significant difference in daily life. These strategies not only enhance clarity and understanding but also foster independence and improve relationships. By acknowledging the challenges and actively working on communication, you can mitigate the impact of PD on your interactions and continue to engage confidently with the world around you.