Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s Disease: Understanding and Support

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive nervous system disorder that affects various parts of the body controlled by nerves. Symptoms typically develop gradually, often starting with a slight tremor in one hand. Over time, the disorder progresses, leading to stiffness and slowed movement. Symptoms usually begin on one side of the body and often remain more pronounced on that side. The severity and onset of symptoms vary from person to person.

Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease:

1. Tremor: Initially, a subtle tremor may occur in the fingers or hand, which can progress to noticeable shaking. This tremor may lessen during purposeful movements but may also manifest as a characteristic pill-rolling motion of rubbing the thumb and forefinger.
2. Muscle Stiffness: Stiffness can affect any part of the body, limiting the range of motion and causing discomfort.
3. Bradykinesia (Slowness of Movement): As Parkinson’s advances, movement may become slower, with shorter strides and difficulty initiating movements like getting out of chairs or walking.
4. Posture and Balance: Posture may become stooped, and balance issues may arise, leading to an increased risk of falls. Reduced arm swing during walking is common.
5. Speech: Speech may become slurred, with pauses or halting speech patterns. Voice volume and clarity often decrease, and speech may become monotone.
6. Swallowing Reflex: Difficulty swallowing and increased saliva production may occur, necessitating dietary modifications and strategies to manage swallowing safely.

How Can a Speech Pathologist Assist? Collaboration with families is essential for holistic care and support. Early intervention plays a critical role in managing symptoms effectively.

A speech pathologist can help by:

1. Swallowing Management: Providing strategies for safe swallowing and recommending dietary modifications. Guidance on oral hygiene and techniques to maintain mouth health will also be offered.
2. Voice: Teaching techniques to maintain voice volume and clarity, improving communication effectiveness.
3. Support Groups: Facilitating group sessions with others experiencing similar challenges, promoting mental well-being and offering opportunities to practice communication techniques.
4. Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT LOUD): Specialized therapy focused on improving speech volume and clarity.
5. ParkinSong: A peer support group that includes vocal exercises, group singing, and social interactions to support individuals with Parkinson’s.

In conclusion, a speech pathologist plays a crucial role in helping individuals with Parkinson’s disease maintain and improve their communication abilities, ensuring a better quality of life through targeted interventions and support networks.

https://www.parkinsonswa.org.au/community-programs

Parkinson’s Disease: Understanding and Support

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive nervous system disorder that affects various parts of the body controlled by nerves. Symptoms typically develop gradually, often starting with a slight tremor in one hand. Over time, the disorder progresses, leading to stiffness and slowed movement. Symptoms usually begin on one side of the body and often remain more pronounced on that side. The severity and onset of symptoms vary from person to person.

Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease:

1. Tremor: Initially, a subtle tremor may occur in the fingers or hand, which can progress to noticeable shaking. This tremor may lessen during purposeful movements but may also manifest as a characteristic pill-rolling motion of rubbing the thumb and forefinger.
2. Muscle Stiffness: Stiffness can affect any part of the body, limiting the range of motion and causing discomfort.
3. Bradykinesia (Slowness of Movement): As Parkinson’s advances, movement may become slower, with shorter strides and difficulty initiating movements like getting out of chairs or walking.
4. Posture and Balance: Posture may become stooped, and balance issues may arise, leading to an increased risk of falls. Reduced arm swing during walking is common.
5. Speech: Speech may become slurred, with pauses or halting speech patterns. Voice volume and clarity often decrease, and speech may become monotone.
6. Swallowing Reflex: Difficulty swallowing and increased saliva production may occur, necessitating dietary modifications and strategies to manage swallowing safely.

How Can a Speech Pathologist Assist? Collaboration with families is essential for holistic care and support. Early intervention plays a critical role in managing symptoms effectively.

A speech pathologist can help by:

1. Swallowing Management: Providing strategies for safe swallowing and recommending dietary modifications. Guidance on oral hygiene and techniques to maintain mouth health will also be offered.
2. Voice: Teaching techniques to maintain voice volume and clarity, improving communication effectiveness.
3. Support Groups: Facilitating group sessions with others experiencing similar challenges, promoting mental well-being and offering opportunities to practice communication techniques.
4. Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT LOUD): Specialized therapy focused on improving speech volume and clarity.
5. ParkinSong: A peer support group that includes vocal exercises, group singing, and social interactions to support individuals with Parkinson’s.

In conclusion, a speech pathologist plays a crucial role in helping individuals with Parkinson’s disease maintain and improve their communication abilities, ensuring a better quality of life through targeted interventions and support networks.

https://www.parkinsonswa.org.au/community-programs