Speech therapy can restore a senior's ability to speak and communicate effectively after a serious medical incident. This is crucial for expressing their needs, telling others how they're feeling, and having the comfort and security that comes from connecting with family and friends. Here’s what you need to know about speech therapy for seniors, as well as signs that your loved one could benefit from the treatment. 

What You Should Know About Speech Therapy for Seniors

What Medical Issues Might Require Speech Therapy?

Problems with speech can stem from several different medical issues. Stroke is among the most common cause, producing a condition called aphasia in which the victim has trouble speaking and understanding others; up to a third of all stroke survivors have aphasia. Brain injuries, cancers of the mouth or head, and dementia can also limit a person's speech.

What Are the Signs Your Loved One Could Benefit? 

As the loved one of a senior, it's important to know the symptoms of a speech-related problem so that you can plan treatment. Common signs include:

• A noticeable slowdown or limitation in speaking ability
• A reluctance to speak
• Difficulty finding the right words or making requests
• Lengthier response times when asked a question
• Transposing words
• Trouble swallowing

Also, ask yourself how confident you are that your loved one would be able to ask for help or advocate for themselves in an emergency.

What Does the Therapy Entail? 

There are a variety of treatment methods utilized in speech therapy, depending on the nature of the medical incident that affected the senior's ability to communicate. Singing, roleplaying, and learning to connect words to visual images are all common approaches that speech therapists use. The muscles of the mouth, jaw, and face are often strengthened and retrained to better support speech. If the senior has trouble swallowing, the speech therapist might offer diet modifications and feeding guidance to make swallowing easier and more comfortable.

In general, the earlier speech therapy is started after a medical incident, the higher the likelihood of restoring some degree of speech. If your loved one could benefit, turn to the compassionate team at Englewood Health Care Center in Monroe County, AL. This rehabilitation facility offers speech, physical, and occupational therapies, as well as independent and assisted living options. They’re dedicated to monitoring their residents’ dietary, medical, and social needs, all while helping them live independent lives. To schedule a tour today, call (251) 575-3285 or visit them online.