SPEAK OUT! Therapy Program is a research, evidence-based speech therapy program specific for Parkinson’s and other related neurological disorders to help patients regain and retain their speech and swallowing. This program combines individual speech therapy, education, daily home practice, and ongoing support. It was developed by Parkinson Voice Project in Richardson, Texas and you can visit their website at parkinsonvoiceproject.com for even more information!
“Up to 90% of people with Parkinson’s are at risk of losing their ability to speak. In addition, swallowing complications account for 70% of the mortality rate in this patient population. Our vision at Parkinson’s Voice Project is to make quality speech therapy accessible to people with Parkinson’s worldwide,” states Samantha Elandary, Parkinson Voice Project’s Founder and Chief Executive Officer.
Do people ask you to repeat yourself? Does your voice sound hoarse, scratchy, or breathy? Does your family say you speak too softly? Do you clear your throat often? Does your voice sound strong on some days, but weak on others? Do you cough when you eat or drink? Do food or pills feel like they get “stuck” sometimes? If you answered “YES” to any of these questions, you should schedule a SPEAK OUT! Evaluation today!
Coletta Manske, SLP is a Licensed SPEAK OUT! provider at Southwest Rehabilitation. She has attended the local Parkinson’s support group to talk about her passion for the SPEAK OUT! Therapy Program. She values getting to know each of her patients and partnering with them and their care partners to regain their voice and help them SPEAK OUT!