No matter a person's age, communication is essential to get their needs met, maintain relationships, and navigate daily interactions. Seniors are particularly vulnerable to verbalization problems because of health issues like stroke and dementia. Fortunately, therapy at a rehabilitation center can help. Below is an introduction to how age-related conditions can compromise the ability to speak, as well as some benefits of speech therapy for older folks.

Causes of Speech Difficulties

A stroke results from an abrupt interruption to the brain's blood supply and this interruption often produces a condition called aphasia, which disrupts a person's ability to speak and understand language. Aphasia can also stem from Alzheimer's disease or another form of dementia, with the individual typically encountering trouble comprehending and processing language and "finding" the right words. Speaking trouble can be a natural byproduct of an aging body too; the throat muscles and vocal cords can weaken, which makes communicating simple phrases hard.

How Speech Therapy Can Help

Therapy can help seniors regain some speaking capability. It helps strengthen the vocal cords and makes talking easier. This ensures that the senior can state their needs and preferences, communicate with doctors and loved ones, and get the support they require. By building up the muscles and movements of the throat, mouth, and jaw, speech therapy also improves swallowing, making both eating and speaking more comfortable. But the biggest benefit is the increase in quality of life the senior will experience, recovering some extent of verbal connection with the world around them.

If a senior in your life requires speech therapy, the professionals at WyndRidge Health & Rehabilitation Center can help. Located in Crossville, TN, this rehabilitation center offers both inpatient and outpatient services, including speech and physical therapy. They are also a full-service nursing home and respiratory care unit. Call (931) 707-5687 or visit them online to schedule an appointment with a trusted local rehabilitation center.