Speech Therapy Offered Here

Speech Language Pathology (Speech Therapy) is the study, diagnosis, and treatment of defects and disorders of the voice and of spoken and written communication. Speech therapists play an important role in working with the aging population. As people age they are likely to have changes that occur in their speech, language, memory and swallowing due to an injury, illness or normal aging. In addition, their chances of having a stroke or developing dementia or Parkinson’s disease increase, as do the chances of acquiring a communication or swallowing disorder related to these diseases.

Speech therapists provide vital services to those individuals who do have communication, cognitive, or swallowing impairments following illness, trauma, or disease. Speech therapists also have a role in preventing communication and swallowing disorders by promoting a healthy lifestyle and educating consumers about how to prevent stroke and other disorders that may lead to impairment.

Who should receive speech therapy?
• Individuals that have swallowing difficulties
• Individuals who have trouble with memory or have increased confusion
• Individuals who cannot follow simple commands or have trouble understanding
• Individuals who cannot formulate words or sentences correctly
• Individuals who have slurred speech, are very hoarse, or strain to talk
• Individuals who are having trouble reading and writing
• Individuals that have lip, mouth, or tongue weakness, lack of coordination or decreased range of motion

Treatment goals for speech therapy include reducing the disability, educating and counseling on how to cope with the stress associated with speech and communication disorders.

What are the goals of speech therapy?
• Communicate wants and needs effectively
• Able to understand those around them
• Able to be independent and functioning on the least restricted diet possible
• Act as an advocate for patient and family

Fortunately, most people with speech and language problems can be helped. Even if the problem cannot be eliminated, speech therapists teach people strategies to cope with their problems so that they can live fulfilling and independent lives. It fits nicely in our Community's overall mission to "provide a retirement experience filled with well-being and wholeness".

If you would like more information on speech therapy services, contact our therapy department, which also provides physical and occupational therapy.