April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month: What SLPs Want You to Know
- Lauren Hatchett
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
Each April, we take a moment to spotlight a disease that affects nearly one million people in the U.S. alone: Parkinson’s Disease (PD). At Marigold Speech, we’re honored to be part of the care team for individuals living with Parkinson’s—and we’re here to share how Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) play a vital role in helping people maintain independence, safety, and confidence.
What is Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological condition that primarily affects movement, but it can also impact voice, swallowing, facial expression, and communication. You may know it by its most visible signs—tremor, stiffness, and slowed movement—but the effects can be much broader and more subtle.
How Can a Speech-Language Pathologist Help?
Many people are surprised to learn that Parkinson’s can significantly affect speech, voice, and swallowing. That’s where we come in.
Here’s what SLPs assess and treat in individuals with PD:
1. Voice & Speech Changes
Soft, breathy, or monotone speech is common in Parkinson’s. Patients may not realize how quiet or unclear they sound. We provide voice therapy (such as SPEAK OUT!®) to help improve vocal strength and clarity.
2. Swallowing Difficulties (Dysphagia)
Up to 80% of people with Parkinson’s will experience dysphagia—difficulty swallowing—at some point. This can lead to choking, aspiration pneumonia, weight loss, or reduced quality of life.
At Marigold Speech, we offer outpatient swallowing evaluations in our clinic using FEES (Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing). This state-of-the-art procedure allows us to assess how safely and efficiently someone swallows in real time—without radiation or travel to a hospital setting.
With the results, we create personalized therapy plans to help individuals eat and drink safely, confidently, and comfortably.
3. Cognitive-Communication Skills
Changes in attention, memory, or word-finding can impact everyday communication. SLPs support individuals with strategies to stay sharp and expressive.
Why Early Intervention Matters
You don’t have to wait until there’s a serious issue to start working with a speech therapist. In fact, research shows that early intervention helps preserve function longer. We love empowering individuals with proactive strategies for clear communication and safe eating—before the challenges become too advanced.
Let’s Raise Awareness—Together
Parkinson’s isn’t just a movement disorder—it’s a communication and swallowing disorder, too. This Parkinson’s Awareness Month, let’s shine a light on the full scope of care these individuals deserve.
If you or someone you love has Parkinson’s, ask your neurologist or primary care provider for a referral to a speech-language pathologist. And if you’re a facility in need of accessible, on-site swallowing evaluations—Marigold Speech is here to help.
Want to learn more about our FEES services or voice therapy options? Email us at info@marigoldspeech.com or give us a call 608-728-7774—we’d love to support you.
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