Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor symptoms such as resting tremor, muscle rigidity, bradykinesia (slowness of movement), and postural instability. The disease stems from the loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the substantia nigra of the midbrain, leading to widespread effects on movement and other functions; many patients also experience non-motor symptoms like cognitive changes or mood disturbances. Critically for communication, PD commonly causes hypokinetic dysarthria – a speech disorder marked by reduced loudness, monotone pitch, imprecise articulation, and rapid or mumbled speech – as well as voice difficulties (e.g. a soft, breathy voice).
SLPs work with individuals with Parkinson’s Disease to address speech and voice impairments (nearly 90% of people with PD develop speech/voice issues), using therapies like voice amplification techniques or the Lee Silverman Voice Treatment to improve vocal loudness, clarity, and overall communication.
Poewe, Werner, Katrin Seppi, Christine M. Tanner, et al. “Parkinson Disease.” Nature Reviews Disease Primers 3 (2017).
Sapmaz Atalar, M., O. Oguz, and G. Genc. “Hypokinetic Dysarthria in Parkinson’s Disease: A Narrative Review.” Medical Bulletin of Sisli Etfal Hospital 57 (2023).
