Assistive Devices for Patients with Parkinson’s Disease

By Susan Becker, M.S. CCC/SLP

Speech-Language Pathologist

 

 

 

 

As discussed in a previous blog entry, patients with Parkinson’s Disease develop problems with speaking and communicating. As the medical industry progresses, devices and tools become available to patients to help with communication.

Below are several assistive devices that are available to help people with Parkinson’s Disease. These devices can help people communicate more clearly.

1. Palatal Lift

This is a dental apparatus that is similar to a retainer. It lifts the soft palate and stops air from escaping out of the nose during speech.

1. Amplification

This is a personal amplifier that can be used to increase vocal loudness in soft-spoken people. The amplifier also decreases voice fatigue.

1. TTY Telephones Relay System

This is a telephone equipped with a keyboard so speech can be typed and read by a relay operator to the listener. Either the whole message can be typed or just the words that are not understood can be typed.

1. Low-Technology Devices

Notebooks and language boards can be used as alternative communication techniques.

1. High-Technology Electronic Speech Enhancer, Communication Devices

Computers with voice synthesizers and dedicated communication devices are available.

 

Patients who are interested in purchasing electronic communication aids should discuss this with a speech-language therapist before contacting sales representatives for these devices.

To read more about Parkinson’s Disease, click here to read our blog “Communication Tips for Patients with Parkinson’s Disease (PD).”

References:

1. The Cleveland Clinic Foundation, http://my.clevelandclinic.org
2. The Nation Parkinson Foundation, parkinsons.org
3. The National Institute of Health, nih.gov

Questions or concerns? Please don’t hesitate to contact me at: 732-232-4628