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LSVT LOUD

LSVT LOUD is a highly evidence-based speech therapy approach specifically targeted for patients with Parkinson’s Disease. LSVT stands for Lee Silverman Voice Treatment, and it was named for the first patient on whom it was delivered. LSVT LOUD has a huge body of evidence supporting it’s application to patients who suffer from low vocal volume. Evidence also shows benefit for those with rapid rate of speech, monotone/monopitch-sounding speech, and issues with speech precision. 

A quiet voice, also known as hypophonia is very common as Parkinson’s Disease progresses. Hypophonia can cause communication breakdowns, frustration between communication partners, and interpersonal difficulty. In turn, this commonly results in fewer communication interactions, fewer initiations of conversations and common communication exchanges. The person with Parkinson’s Disease often begins to feel self-conscious, embarrassed, and isolated. 

But it doesn’t have to be this way! With the amount of evidence supporting the use of the LSVT approach for low vocal volume, people with Parkinson’s related hypophonia have hope. LSVT LOUD is delivered in a very specific, intense manner, which has incredible communication results. Patients are expected to complete daily exercises for the duration of the therapy delivery, and also are therapy is over. Most patients are highly committed to this regimen, given the almost-immediate results they see from the LSVT LOUD therapy approach. 

Speech Language Pathologists must be certified to deliver LSVT LOUD therapy, and are required to renew their certification every 2 years so they are up to date on the latest research on how to deliver this therapy most optimally. 

When it comes to Parkinson’s Disease, exercise is medicine! Exercise is an absolutely crucial component to combating the progression of Parkinson’s symptoms. LSVT LOUD is exercise for the communication system that will help prevent further deterioration in vocal volume and overall speech delivery. 

The Saratoga Springs Speech Pathologist at Empire Speech and Swallow is LSVT LOUD certified, and has provided the LSVT LOUD treatment approach to many satisfied patients in the greater Saratoga area. If you are interested in LSVT LOUD, or you have someone in your life that you think would benefit from LSVT LOUD for their Parkinson’s-related communication changes, contact us now to learn more about this scientifically proven approach.