PROREHAB

Speech Language pathologists (SLP's )offer therapies that focus on an
individual's capacity for language, speech, comprehension and
swallowing. Their treatment plans are designed to help improve senior's
cognition, communication and address issues like nutrition and hydration
that some medical providers don't take into account concerning speech
and swallowing issues. Furthermore, speech pathologists help promote a
healthy lifestyle for seniors through education about dementia related
conditions and stroke prevention.

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Because speech therapy has so many benefits for the elderly, some
individuals consider therapy for even mild to moderate concerns such as
stuttering or fear of speaking around others. However, it is often after a
medical incident such as the onset of dementia, a stroke, a head injury or
an oral or head related cancer diagnosis that seniors seek out speech
therapy treatment. It's important to note that speech therapy can also
become necessary due to the aging process. As the vocal cords lose
elasticity and the larynx muscles weaken, seniors may find speaking in
their normal manner challenging or impossible. Is there any doubt that the
senior could adequately communicate in a time of emergency?

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• Has your loved one become more reluctant to speak recently?

• Are they struggling with speaking audibly or having trouble hearing others?

• Does your loved one transpose words frequently?

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Speech language pathologists are highly trained and skilled in helping
seniors retrain and regain their ability to communicate with speech
therapy. They also assist with dysphasia conditions that can make
swallowing difficult or impossible. After the decision is made to seek
treatment, an SLP will perform a comprehensive evaluation and then
make recommendations for specific therapies depending on whether the
issues are aphasia related, dysphasia based or both. Treatment methods
vary depending on whether the issues are caused by a stroke, head injury
or a dementia related condition.