Keep Talking, Keep Connecting: Helping People with Parkinson’s Preserve Their Voice
- OSCAR Care Group
- 3 days ago
- 4 min read
How Speech Therapy can help your voice stay strong with Parkinson’s Disease.
Losing your voice doesn’t mean losing your connection to the world. For people with Parkinson’s disease, changes to speech and voice can sneak up quietly — a little mumble here, a softer tone there. But it doesn’t have to be this way. With early support from a Speech Pathologist, people with Parkinson’s can maintain a strong, confident voice and stay connected with their loved ones.
Let’s explore how to protect the power of communication — and why early speech support is key.
Why Does Parkinson’s Affect People’s Speech?
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological condition. It mainly affects movement — but it also impacts the muscles we use to speak. People with Parkinson’s may speak more quietly, their words might become unclear, or their tone may sound flat and expressionless.
Some people may not even realise it’s happening. Others might feel frustrated when family or friends ask them to repeat themselves more often. It’s not just about speech — it’s about staying socially and emotionally connected.
The Emotional and Social Side of Voice Loss
Losing your voice is more than just losing the ability to talk.
Losing your voice can mean:
Feeling embarrassed or left out
Withdrawing from conversations
Struggling to keep up with fast-paced chats or group settings
Feeling disconnected from family and friends
It can feel frustrating and confusing when communication becomes harder for carers and family members too. That’s why speech therapy often involves the whole family — not just the person with Parkinson’s.
“Use It or Lose It” — Why Early Support Speech Therapy Matters
One of the biggest myths out there is that you should wait until things get really bad before seeing a Speech Pathologist. Wrong! The earlier you see a Speech Pathologist is better the outcome. Think of it like going to the gym for your voice. The earlier you start, the stronger you stay.
Seeing a speechie early (even right after a Parkinson’s diagnosis) helps people:
Learn strategies before problems begin
Stay ahead of voice changes
Build confidence in communication
Reduce social isolation
What Can a Speech Pathologist do to help protect your voice with Parkinson’s
A Speech Pathologist is your voice’s personal coach.
We work closely with people with Parkinson’s to:
Keep the voice strong and clear
Improve breath support and loudness
Make speech more expressive
Help with swallowing issues if they arise
Boost confidence in everyday conversations
One popular tool is the LSVT LOUD® program, which focuses on increasing vocal effort and volume. But there are also other tailored approaches depending on the person’s needs and preferences.
Besides your voice and speech, Speech Pathologists also support people with Parkinson's Disease with:
Help with swallowing and mealtime safety
Teach family members how to support communication
Recommend AAC (alternative communication tools) if needed
Assist with memory and communication routines
Keeping Your Voice Strong with Parkinson’s
Here are a few easy tips that our Speech Pathologist has put together you can try:
Speak up every day: Have a chat with someone, even if it’s over the phone or video call.
Breathe well: Good speech starts with good breath. Try sitting upright and taking deep breaths before speaking.
Sing! Singing helps strengthen voice muscles and lifts your mood too.
Stay hydrated: Dry throat = dry voice.
Don’t shout over noise: Instead, turn down the TV or move to a quieter room.
Join a Parkinson’s voice group: These are fun, social, and great for motivation.
Talk to your GP about your voice
GPs are often the first port of call when there’s issues. If a patient with Parkinson’s shows any of these signs, it’s time for a Speech Pathology referral:
Voice sounds softer or hoarser
People keep asking them to repeat themselves
They seem to struggle with talking in groups
They avoid phone calls or conversations
Coughing or choking when eating or drinking
The earlier the referral, the better the outcome. Even if the person feels their voice is “fine,” it’s still worth getting a baseline assessment.
Do You Need a Referral to See a Speech Pathologist with Parkinson’s?
Nope! You don’t need a GP referral to see a private Speech Pathologist.
But a Chronic Disease Management (CDM) Plan can help people access Medicare rebates. People under 65 may also be eligible for NDIS support if their communication impacts daily living.
If you don’t have a referral and need to see our Speech Pathologist, make an appointment here. Or call our clinic to discuss how we can help.
Residents in Aged Care with Parkinson’s
In aged care, our speechies aren’t just here for swallowing assessments.
We also help residents with:
Vocal exercises to maintain voice clarity
Group programs to keep communication skills sharp
Supporting meaningful interactions with family, staff, and other residents
We also work closely with aged care staff to:
Show how to encourage communication during daily care routines
Help recognise early signs of voice or swallowing difficulties
Provide simple strategies to keep conversations flowing
Speak Early, Speak Often
If you or someone you care about is living with Parkinson’s, don’t wait until the voice fades. Speech Pathologists are here to help keep communication strong, meaningful, and enjoyable — every step of the way. Reach out to an OSCAR Care Group Certified Practising Speech Pathologist today and keep those conversations flowing.
