Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)

Overview:

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that causes loss of voluntary muscle control, including those used for speech and swallowing. It results in a mixed dysarthria and eventual loss of speech, although cognition often remains intact. SLPs play a critical role in maintaining communication and preparing for loss of natural speech. Early AAC planning and voice banking can extend communicative autonomy. Swallowing management and nutritional support are also central to care.

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Sources:

Beukelman, David R., Susan Fager, and Amy Nordness. Communication Support for People with ALS. Neurology Research International 2011 (2011). Link

Duffy, Joseph R. Motor Speech Disorders: Substrates, Differential Diagnosis, and Management. 3rd ed. Elsevier, (2013).