It's really hard watching someone you love struggle to be heard — literally. Parkinson's affects the muscles and nerves needed for speech, including those in the voice box (larynx). This can cause the vocal folds to lose control, leading to a quiet, breathy, or raspy voice. The diaphragm and rib cage muscles can also Show Full Answer
It's really hard watching someone you love struggle to be heard — literally. Parkinson's affects the muscles and nerves needed for speech, including those in the voice box (larynx). This can cause the vocal folds to lose control, leading to a quiet, breathy, or raspy voice. The diaphragm and rib cage muscles can also weaken, making it harder to project sound.
This is called dysarthria, and between 75% and 90% of people with Parkinson's will experience some form of it. It often gets worse as the day goes on. The good news is there are real options to help. Here's what has worked for many people:
- LSVT LOUD therapy — A specialized speech therapy program focused on speaking louder and more clearly. Many people see significant improvement. As one MyParkinsonsTeam member shared, "My wife just completed the sessions. They helped so much. Everyone comments on how her voice has improved."
- Breathing exercises — Techniques like diaphragmatic breathing can strengthen the muscles used for speech.
- Assistive devices — Tools like the SpeechVive earpiece or personal amplifiers can make speech easier to hear.
- Practical tips — Meeting in quiet spaces, speaking in short phrases, and scheduling vocal rest before important conversations can all help.
The key with therapy is consistency — daily practice makes a real difference.
Starting speech treatment early tends to give the best results, so it's worth asking his doctor for a referral to a speech-language pathologist as soon as possible.
July 30
This has happened to me. You neeed to see a speech therapist and get in a speak out program. She will guide you through the program and you go only everyday and work the sessions. It really helped me. Good Luck!
August 8
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