Vancouver Regional Conference: Speech and Swallowing (2018)

During this talk, Jamie Russell, a registered speech-language pathologist (SLP), addressed the impact of Parkinson's disease on speech and swallowing functions, outlining the intricate involvement of the three key systems in speech production and their vulnerability to the disease. Therapy options, including voice therapy programs such as LSVT and Speak Out, were highlighted as effective interventions for individuals with Parkinson's, accompanied by practical communication strategies for both patients and their partners.

The talk further explores the complexities of swallowing difficulties associated with Parkinson's, ranging from mild to severe manifestations, encompassing challenges in food and liquid control, drooling, and potential risks such as coughing, choking, and pneumonia during meals. She emphasizes the pivotal role of speech-language pathologists in assessing and managing these concerns through tailored interventions, encompassing exercises, diet adjustments, and mealtime strategies. The session underlines the significance of maintaining optimal oral hygiene and proper posture during and after meals, while also delineating the accessibility of SLP services through public health programs or private practice.

**Disclaimer: These sessions are designed to provide general education and are not intended for individual advice and/or clinical care. The information conveyed in this recording was accurate at the time of presentation.**