It’s common for individuals in their golden years to require speech therapy, particularly those who have experienced a stroke or are living with dementia. While seeing a professional will help them improve their communication skills, they can take steps at home as well. When you visit an elderly loved one, here are a few ways you can help them work on their speech. 

4 Speech Therapy Tips to Help an Elderly Loved One

1. Coach Through Exercises

Many senior citizens have trouble sounding out words and communicating because they lack mouth dexterity as a result of stroke, dementia, dental issues, or mobility. One way to help these individuals by doing daily mouth and vocal exercises. Coach your loved one through a series of exercises making repetitive consonant and vowel sounds, clicking the tongue, smiling, and puckering lips.

2. Use Mementos & Family History as Conversation Starters

Recalling treasured memories and socializing with others is a fun and interactive form of speech therapy that allows an elderly person to chat freely. Ask them to share stories about their photographs and keepsakes so they can practice conversation, improve memory retention, and bond simultaneously. 

3. Play With Flashcards & Memory Games

For seniors who need extensive speech therapy, consider investing in flashcards, memory games, or apps and computer programs. The games could be as simple as remembering the names of animals, repeating sentences, or connecting words to visual cues. 

4. Find an In-Home Caregiver

If you’re unable to visit your senior loved one regularly, home care service will provide them with daily life assistance. Many in-home caregivers are also trained in speech therapy and can help improve communication by engaging in conversation or recommending speech exercises and hobbies like singing.

If you or someone you know could benefit from professional speech therapy, seek assistance from CareResource Hawaii, based in the heart of Honolulu. With an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau®, the company is known across the islands for providing compassionate home care service, whether your senior loved one needs speech or physical therapy, or assistance with daily chores to enjoy a higher quality of life. To learn more about their services, call today at (808) 599-4999 or visit their website.