The first step to improving one’s speaking abilities with Parkinson’s is to have an evaluation by a speech-language pathologist who is trained in the SPEAK OUT! & LOUD Crowd program. 

Pre-treatment audio and video recordings are obtained, and speech and voice characteristics are assessed, including vocal volume, breath support for speech, vocal quality, articulation, and prosody.  Stimulability testing is then performed to determine if the patient would benefit from SPEAK OUT!

Prior to starting SPEAK OUT!, patients and families attend a “Parkinson’s Information Session.” It is essential for the whole family to understand basic information about Parkinson’s and how speech and swallowing can be affected. The session illustrates how using intention can improve one’s communication, as well as other motor movements, such as walking and writing.

In addition, the presentation explains how reduced levels of dopamine affect motivation and drive and how setting a routine combined with family support is crucial to managing Parkinson’s.

It can be challenging to make the transition from formal speech therapy to “maintenance.”  This is why Parkinson Voice Project recommends a follow-up session with a speech-language pathologist about six weeks after SPEAK OUT! graduation.  The SPEAK OUT! exercises are reviewed, and assistance with establishing a daily home practice routine is provided. Successful transition into The LOUD Crowd is also assessed.

Since Parkinson’s is progressive and degenerative in nature, daily home practice and continuous follow-up is crucial to maintaining the improvements achieved in any kind of therapy.  For this reason, Parkinson Voice Project’s founder created “The LOUD Crowd.”

The LOUD Crowd provides accountability and education through weekly group sessions where SPEAK OUT! exercises are performed and participants practice speaking with intent. As an added bonus, this maintenance program promotes camaraderie and provides support and encouragement.