Delivering quality communication therapy for adults on the Gold Coast
PARKINSON'S THERAPY
What is Parkinson's disease?
Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological condition that can affect anyone. Parkinson's is the second most common neurological condition and latest research estimates indicates that more than 100,000 Australians are living with Parkinson's. Parkinson's is a complex condition with a wide variety of symptoms. Symptoms start to appear when the brain can't make enough dopamine to control movement properly.
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It is not easy to diagnose Parkinson’s. Often a diagnosis is made by a specialist, such as a neurologist based on clinical signs and symptoms. The specialist will examine for any physical signs of Parkinson’s and take a detailed history of symptoms.​
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Parkinson's can present with a variety of symptoms, such as:
Typical motor symptoms:
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Stiffness (muscle rigidity)
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Slowness of movement (bradykinesia)
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Resting tremor
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Balance and coordination difficulties (usually occurs later in the disease)
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More than 7 million people are living with Parkinson’s worldwide
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90% of people with Parkinson’s have disordered speech and voice
Non-motor symptoms may include:
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Sleep disorders
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Pain
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Sensory changes
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Constipation and continence issues
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Mood Disturbance e.g Depression
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Cognitive issues e.g. memory issues
Other physical changes include:
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Speech problems - speaking in a soft monotone voice and sometimes slurring words or mumbling
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Swallowing problems - choking, coughing and clearing throat when eating or drinking
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Drooling
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Vision changes
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Weight changes.
PARKINSON’S DISEASE CAN REDUCE VOCAL STRENGTH. WE HELP YOU COMMUNICATE WITH INTENT.
More than 7 million people worldwide are currently living with Parkinson’s disease. Of those, around 90% experience disordered speech and voice, which can greatly impact their ability to communicate and connect with others. Yet, despite how common these difficulties are, only 3 to 4% of people with Parkinson’s ever receive speech therapy, leaving a vast majority without the specialised support that could significantly improve their quality of life
(Source: ParkinsonProject.org).
What therapy does a speech pathologist do?​
Speech and swallowing changes can interfere with communication and eating, which can be isolating and harmful.
90% of people with Parkinson’s are at risk of developing a weak voice that can lead to serious speech and swallowing difficulties.
Programs and treatment strategies delivered by a speech therapist may help strengthen your voice and improve swallowing, boosting confidence and health.
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A speech therapist can help you maintain and improve communication skills, as well as teach you ways to chew and swallow to ease symptoms.
“Stories are really important because they provide the fundamental essence of being human. We are our stories” - Professor Annalu Waller OBE
“The way we communicate with others and ourselves ultimately determines the quality of our lives” – Anthony Robbins
