Parkinson’s Awareness Month: Supporting Communication and Swallowing in Parkinson’s Disease

April marks International Parkinson’s Awareness Month - a time dedicated to increasing understanding of Parkinson’s disease (PD) and shining a light on the many ways people can continue to live well with the condition.

While Parkinson’s is often thought of as a movement disorder, its impact can reach far beyond mobility. It can also affect communication, voice, and swallowing- abilities that are central to daily life, independence, and the ability to stay socially connected.

This month, we’re delighted to collaborate with specialist Speech and Language Therapists Chrissie Elworthy and Melissa Clegg, who bring their expertise and compassion to supporting individuals living with Parkinson’s and their families. Through their work, both Chrissie and Mel witness first-hand how the right advice, therapy, and support can make a meaningful difference in quality of life.

Together, we’ll explore practical strategies, personal insights, and professional guidance to better understand how speech and language therapy can empower those living with Parkinson’s to maintain their voice, confidence, and connection.

Communication Changes in Parkinson’s

Changes to speech and voice are very common, affecting up to 75-90% of people with Parkinson’s. These changes occur because Parkinson’s affects the brain’s control of movement, including the coordination needed for breathing, voice, and articulation.

You may notice:

• A quieter or weaker voice

• Speech becoming less clear or rushed

• A flat or monotone voice

• Running out of breath when speaking

• Difficulty finding words or keeping up in conversation

These changes can feel frustrating and may impact confidence. However, these difficulties are treatable, and with the right support, communication can improve significantly.

Why Early Support is Important

Speech and communication changes often develop gradually and can be easy to overlook.

From our experience, early support can:

• Maintain strength and coordination of speech

• Prevent reduced vocal effort becoming a habit

• Improve confidence and participation

• Support independence in daily life

We work with people at all stages of Parkinson’s, but we consistently see that starting early leads to better and longer-lasting outcomes.

Evidence-Based Therapies

At Neuro Speech Clinic we offer research-backed therapies specifically designed for Parkinson’s including:

Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT LOUD®)

The gold-standard voice therapy delivered intensively over four weeks. It focuses on increasing vocal loudness and recalibrating how loud speech feels, helping people achieve a stronger, clearer voice in everyday situations.

EMST (Expiratory Muscle Strength Training)

A breathing-based therapy using a handheld device to strengthen muscles for breathing and coughing. This supports both speech and airway protection, which is essential for safe swallowing.

With regular practice and the right guidance, we see these approaches lead to meaningful improvements in communication and confidence.

Swallowing Difficulties in Parkinson’s

Swallowing problems (dysphagia) affect up to 80% of people with Parkinson’s, yet they are often under-recognised. Swallowing can become slower, less coordinated, and less automatic.

Signs to look out for include:

• Coughing or throat clearing when eating or drinking

• Food sticking in the throat

• Drooling or dry mouth

• Meals taking longer

• Difficulty swallowing tablets

• Weight loss or chest infections

Swallowing difficulties can affect safety, nutrition, and enjoyment of food - but with the right advice and strategies, risks can be reduced and confidence improved.

Practical Tips for Safer Eating and Drinking

Simple changes can make a real difference:

• Sit upright with good posture

• Take small bites and sips

• Eat slowly and avoid rushing

• Choose softer, moist foods if needed

• Maintain good oral hygiene

• Ensure medication timing supports eating

If you notice any changes, it’s important to seek advice early rather than waiting for symptoms to worsen.

Supporting Someone with Parkinson’s

Family and carers play a vital role - and there are practical things you can do to help. These difficulties are not something you have to accept, and with the right support, improvements are possible.

Helpful strategies include:

• Encouraging use of a “loud voice” or speaking with intent

• Reducing background noise

• Allowing extra time to communicate

• Supporting therapy practice

• Giving more time to eat and avoiding rushing meals

• Watching for coughing or throat clearing during meals

If swallowing difficulties are noticed - such as coughing, choking, or food sticking - we advise contacting your GP and requesting a referral to your NHS Speech and Language Therapy (SLT) service. We at Neuro Speech Clinic may also be able to provide specialist support.

Communication and swallowing difficulties are common in Parkinson’s - but they can improve with the right support, therapy, and strategies. We regularly see people regain confidence in their voice, feel safer eating and drinking, and stay engaged in the activities that matter most to them.

This Parkinson’s Awareness Month, we encourage anyone noticing changes to seek help early. You do not have to manage these challenges alone - and you do not have to accept them as inevitable.

About Neuro Speech Clinic

At Neuro Speech Clinic, we are specialist Speech and Language Therapists with over 30 years of combined experience, supporting people with neurological conditions to improve communication, swallowing, and quality of life.To find out more, visit: www.neurospeechclinic.com