The SPEAK OUT! Therapy Program, developed by the nonprofit organization, Parkinson Voice Project, helps people with Parkinson’s and related disorders REGAIN and RETAIN their speech and swallowing. The program, if followed properly according to the exercises set out in the SPEAK OUT! Therapy Program, can improve volume, articulation, breath support for speech, vocal quality, intonation, and facial expression. Patients and families also report reduced drooling and improved swallowing. This highly effective, research-based treatment combines education, individual SPEAK OUT! Therapy, SPEAK OUT! Classes, and daily home practice. The “Circle of INTENT” outlines the various therapy components and emphasizes that this program is lifelong. Expand each bar below to learn more about the program:
Daily home practice is essential. Patients complete speech exercises using the SPEAK OUT! Home Practice Sessions, digital booklet, and flashcards.
Patients, families, and close friends watch this video to learn about Parkinson’s and to understand why “INTENT” is an important key to managing this disease.
Patients and families work individually with a Certified SPEAK OUT! Provider to learn the SPEAK OUT! Exercises and establish a consistent home practice routine.
Toward the end of individual SPEAK OUT! Therapy, patients transition to weekly SPEAK OUT! Classes for ongoing speech practice, education, and support.
Patients and families meet with their Certified SPEAK OUT! Provider every 6-12 months for a re-evaluation.
