Speak Out
About Speak Out
The SPEAK OUT! ® voice therapy program is offered to people with Parkinson’s Disease.
Program content
This evidenced-based program helps individuals regain and maintain effective communication. SPEAK OUT! ® emphasises speaking with intent with the goal of transforming speech clarity and vocal loudness from an automatic function to a deliberate act.
The program, developed by the Parkinson Voice Project, has also been shown to help preserve or improve swallow function. The program is run by our certified practising Speech Pathologist and sessions consist of speech, voice and cognitive exercises as well as a daily home practice program.
What you will experience
This program helps individuals regain and maintain effective communication by transforming speech clarity and vocal loudness from an automatic function to a deliberate act. It also aims to preserve or improve swallow function through a combination of speech, voice, and cognitive exercises, along with a daily home practice program.
Treatment objectives
Objective 1
Improve Vocal Loudness: Enhance the volume of speech to ensure individuals can be heard clearly.
Objective 2
Increase Speech Clarity: Improve articulation and clarity of speech to make communication more effective.
Objective 3
Strengthen Speech Muscles: Target the muscles used for speaking to improve overall vocal strength and endurance.
Objective 4
Transform Speech into an Intentional Act: Shift speech production from an automatic function to a deliberate, intentional act, which helps in managing the symptoms of Parkinson's.
Objective 5
Preserve or Improve Swallow Function: Address and improve swallowing difficulties that often accompany Parkinson's disease.
What's included
Action Plans
Step-by-step activities to help you put new skills into practice.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost?
Most programs are covered by health funds, provided the patient has sufficient cover. May also obtain approval from DVA or Workcover. Participants will need to contact the health fund / case manager and our day therapy coordinator to discuss any out-of-pocket expense, excess or gap fee.
