Explore The Role of Speech Pathology for Helping Old Individuals

As people age, changes in speech, voice, language, memory and swallowing occur naturally. Communication problems are common in elderly care settings and many people live with at least one communication disorder.

Older people are at a higher risk of developing stroke or dementia, Parkinson's disease, hearing loss or speech disorders, which can cause communication and/or swallowing. Stroke is the main cause of communication disorders in the elderly. 3 in 1 of the survivors experience aphasia. This is a speech disorder that makes it difficult to understand, speak, read and/or write. The majority of people living with Parkinson's have speech or speech disorders. 

According to the experts offering speech pathology in Melbourne, speech disorders have a significant negative impact on quality of life and can lead to depression, anxiety and social withdrawal. Many older people live with communication disabilities, which can affect their ability to express their needs and desires, maintain relationships and participate socially in the community.

What services do speech therapists provide to the elderly?

Speech pathologists work with older people to improve communication and swallowing abilities. The services include:

• Speech, language, voice and swallowing assessment: Provides a safe swallowing strategy for clients and caregivers.
• Educate clients on proper swallowing techniques.
• Plan and manage meal times.
• Recommended modified food/fluid texture.
• Provides speech therapy to improve speech clarity.
• Provides speech therapy.
• Provides speech therapy through a therapeutic and/or compensatory approach.
• To promote accessibility and inclusion, speech pathologists near Melbourne may recommend communication technologies to support communication in everyday activities and social environments. 
• Individual or group therapy.

How can older people improve their swallowing?

If you have concerns about your swallowing or about a loved one, see your GP, who can recommend an assessment with an otolaryngologist or a speech therapist in Melbourne.

Safe swallowing strategies include:

• When eating or drinking, sit upright (90 degrees).
• Leave it upright for 30 minutes after drinking or eating.
• Slowly, take a small bite/bite.
• If you start coughing, stop eating or drinking, cough and wait until it's over and continue.
• Limit what distracts you when you eat or drink (e.g., You can turn it off.)
• Do not talk or eat at the same time.
• Do not eat or drink too quickly.
• Alternating between food and liquid.
• Take the swallow 2 or 3 times per bite.
• Maintain adequate oral hygiene by cleaning teeth after meals.

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