Speech Programs for Patients With Parkinson’s Disease
As many as 89% of people with Parkinson’s disease experience speech or voice changes, such as a soft voice, slurred or stuttering speech, and monotone pitch.
Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT) and SPEAK OUT!
Evaluation and therapy in the early stages of the disease ― even when symptoms are mild or not noticeable — can help to maintain function.
Two evidence-based approaches to help address speech changes are:
- Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT) LOUD®
- Parkinson Voice Project SPEAK OUT!®
How the Programs Work
LSVT LOUD focuses on improving vocal loudness. The goal of SPEAK OUT is stronger, clearer speech.
You will participate in individual speech therapy through LSVT LOUD or SPEAK OUT!. Then, we encourage you to continue daily exercise to maintain progress you made in therapy.
If you have completed SPEAK OUT, you can attend a SPEAK OUT! group, also known as LOUD Crowd. These groups meet once a week. They offer opportunities for vocal practice, social interaction, support, and accountability.
- LSVT LOUD includes individual therapy, four times per week, for four weeks. Then, you will practice at home every day. You can return for “refresher” sessions as needed.
- SPEAK OUT includes individual therapy, three times per week, for four weeks. You can then attend SPEAK OUT group sessions one time per week for as long as you want.
If needed, LSVT also offers a treatment program called LSVT BIG led by physical and occupational therapists.
Where to Get Treatment
Many Northwestern Medicine speech therapists are certified to provide LSVT LOUD or SPEAK OUT! therapy. The following outpatient rehabilitation locations offer one or both of the programs.
- LSVT LOUD
- SPEAK OUT
- LSVT LOUD and SPEAK OUT
- SPEAK OUT Groups
Offered at the following locations:
BloomingdaleGrayslake
Northwestern Medicine Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital
Offered at the following locations:
AuroraLake Forest
Oakbrook
Palos Heights
Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital
Offered at the following locations:
How to Schedule an Appointment
If you notice changes in speech, voice or swallowing, ask your physician for a referral to speech therapy. The speech therapist will conduct an evaluation to determine which treatment approach best fits your needs. You can notify your therapist at the evaluation if you are interested in one of the programs.
Please call 630.933.1500 for more information.
Chrome
Edge
Safari
Firefox