Parkinson's
Voice
Parkinson Voice Project
Therapy
100

A neurodegenerative disorder that affects dopamine-producing neurons in a specific area of the brain called the substantia nigra

What is Parkinson's Disease?

100

- reduced volume

- hoarse vocal quality

- frequent throat clearing

- varying vocal quality

- reduced intensity at the end of sentences

What are voice difficulties associated with Parkinson's Disease?

100

A five step program that includes a voice evaluation, information sessions, an individual therapy portion, a follow-up, and a group maintenance therapy portion

What is the Parkinson Voice Project?
100

Twice a week for six weeks

What is the time commitment for SPEAK OUT?

200

- Tremor

- Bradykinesia

-Limb rigidity

- Gait and balance problems

What are symptoms of Parkinson's Disease?

200

The earlier the better

When is the best time to seek speech therapy for patient's with Parkinson's Disease?

Same muscles used for speaking and swallowing. Early intervention may minimize future difficulties

200

Used to obtain baseline audio and video recording to assess speech and voice characteristics such as volume, breath support, vocal quality, articulation, and prosody. Stimulability testing may also be conducted to determine if the patient would benefit from the program.

What is the speech evaluation?

200

Speaking and living with intent

The goal of the Parkinson Voice Project

300

The rate at which symptoms generally progress

What is two years?

300

When we speak with intent, we use a different part of the brain that is less dependent on dopamine

What is the benefit of speaking with intent?
300

The individualized portion of the Parkinson Voice Project where the patient completes vocal warm-ups, reading exercises, and cognitive exercises

What is SPEAK OUT?

300

- workbook

-decibel meter

- visual aids for intensity if needed

What are the therapy materials needed for the Parkinson Voice Project?
400

The number of stages of Parkinson's Disease

What is five?

Stage 1: mild symptoms that do not interfere with daily life, tremor on one side of the body, changes in posture, walking and facial expressions

Stage 2: tremor and rigidity on both sides of the body, apparent walking and postural issues, lengthy and difficult daily tasks

Stage 3: loss of balance, slowness of movement, falls are common, impaired ability to eat and dress independently

Stage 4: may require a walker, unable to live alone, requires help for daily living tasks

Stage 5: stiff legs make it impossible to walk or stand, wheelchair or bedridden, around-the-clock nursing care, may experience hallucinations or delusions

400

Dopamine facilitates automatic movements such as swallowing and speaking. 

What is the cause of speech and swallowing issues with Parkinson's Disease?

400
Used to assist with the transition from therapy to maintenance. Includes a review of SPEAK OUT exercises and establishes a daily home practice routine

What is the six-week follow-up?

500

The percent of patients with Parkinson's disease who are at risk of developing a weak voice that may result in severe speech and swallowing difficulties

What is 90%?

500

A maintenance group used for accountability and education for patients who have completed the SPEAK OUT program. May also promote relationships and act as a support group

What is THE LOUD CROWD?